Q&A: How dangerous are hot showers and listeria?

by Dr. Gerard M. DiLeo

Are hot showers dangerous during the second trimester? I felt like I may have have had a shower that was too hot for too long (15-20 minutes). My tempature was 37.5 C when I got out of the shower so I'm wondering if it could have harmed my baby? I also have a question on listeria. I've done so much research and it seems that pregnant women have a high chance of contracting this bacteria. How do you actually know if you have it and does a fever always accompany it? I've had occasional diarrhea (one episode, on two or three different occasions with some stomach upset) and am wondering if this could be the result of listeria. Should I be worried or tested?

Whan you take hot showers, your body temperature may increase for the short time you're in the shower, but not stay elevated like in a sauna or jacuzzi. All of the studies haven't really concluded definite harm, and they were done in reference to the first trimester,anyway. So you probaby have nothing to worry about. If you still have concerns, discuss this with your OB-Gyn to see what his or her own criteria are regarding hot showers. I myself would tell my own patients, "Don't sweat it" (pun intended).

Listeria is a serious infection that can do great harm, but is very unusual. I've only had one case in 22 years that was definitely identified. You can't worry about EVERYTHING that can hurt you, otherwise you'd never get on the freeway. But information and knowledge is ALWAYS beneficial, so go to the CDC site which has a great web page on Listeria at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/listeriosis_g.htm

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