How do oysters affect pregnant women?

Answer 1

Pregnant women are advised not to eat oysters.

It is not the oysters that are dangerous, as long as they are well cooked. It is the possible germs and parasites that they may introduce into your body if they are eaten raw or only lightly steamed.

For instance, one bacteria, called Vibrio parahaemolyticus, can cause diarrhea, vomiting, cramps and fever. The illness may be mild and last two or three days, but for people with preexisting conditions or weakened immune systems, it can be fatal.

Tetracycline is the treatment of choice, but doctors don't want to give it to pregnant women because it can cause discoloration of the baby's teeth.

That is why pregnant women are advised not to eat an oyster unless it is well cooked.