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Question: I am 36 weeks pregnant and have just read that blue-veined and soft cheeses are a definite no-no during pregnancy. I wasn't aware of this and have eaten it on a number of occasions. Is it true they can cause stillbirth or other problems? Answer: The risk associated with eating soft cheeses is caused by a bacteria named Listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria causes listeriosis in people with a taxed immune system - an inflammation of the brain and the membranes that cover it. Transmission occurs when milk and cheese products have been improperly processed. It is recommended that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses (the soft cheese offers a nice medium for the bacteria to thrive on). Listeria crosses the placenta and infects the fetus. The possible consequences are miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death. Examples of soft cheeses to avoid are: Camembert, brie, blue cheese, feta, soft mexican cheeses such as queso fresco and queso blanco. I believe it is best to err on the side of caution - it is not worth risking your health or the baby's. If you are unsure if a cheese is considered soft, then don't eat it. If you have eaten it and are afraid of getting sick, call your doctor.
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