Can You Eat Shellfish While Pregnant?

Now that you are pregnant, the way you eat shellfish may have to change.

Luckily, if you cook your shellfish thoroughly it will be safe to eat.

So, why is raw shellfish is unsafe?

Consuming raw shellfish can be dangerous as it can harbour harmful bacteria and viruses such as Toxoplasmosis.

Toxoplasmosis is an infection that can be passed through the placenta and may affect your baby. It can unfortunately lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or fetal developmental issues.

There is also a risk that raw shellfish can cause food poisoning. Having food poisoning during pregnancy is not only unpleasant but it can also be dangerous for you and your baby.

So, in a nutshell, it is incredibly important to know what foods you can and can’t eat during pregnancy and how to prepare them to ensure you stay well and keep your baby safe.

Stick along for the ride and check out the articles below that talk through the different types of shellfish and whether or not they are safe to eat.

As always, if you are unsure about what foods to avoid etc, please contact your hospital/Midwife or doctor.

Also, if you are feeling unwell or worried about something you have eaten, don’t panic—just get in contact with your local healthcare provider and ask them for advice.