Should I avoid eating raw fish when trying to conceive?

Raw Fish Consumption When Trying to Conceive

Women trying to conceive should avoid eating raw fish due to risks of parasitic infections, foodborne illnesses, and potential contaminants that could harm fertility and early pregnancy. 1

Risks of Raw Fish Consumption

Parasitic Infections

• Raw fish can harbor parasites that cause infections which may be more difficult to treat during pregnancy 2
• Fish-borne parasitic infections can lead to:
  • Severe anemia
  • Malabsorption
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Allergic reactions
  • Gastric ulcers 3

Foodborne Pathogens

• Raw fish may contain harmful bacteria like Listeria and other pathogens that pose risks to conception and early pregnancy 4
• These infections can be particularly concerning because:
  • Early pregnancy may occur before a woman knows she's pregnant
  • Infections during this critical period can affect implantation and early development

Safe Fish Consumption Guidelines

Cooked Fish Recommendations

• Consume up to 2 servings per week (8-12 oz total) of properly cooked, low-mercury fish 1
• Beneficial fish options include:
  • Salmon
  • Canned light tuna
  • Pollock
  • Catfish
  • Shrimp 1

Fish to Avoid Completely

• High-mercury fish should be avoided when trying to conceive:
  • Shark
  • Swordfish
  • King mackerel
  • Tilefish 1

Safe Food Handling Practices

Proper Cooking

• Cook fish thoroughly to internal temperatures that kill parasites and bacteria
  • 165°F for fish is recommended 4, 1
• Thorough freezing can kill parasites in fish (though only 19% of obstetricians were aware of this fact) 2

Cross-Contamination Prevention

• Wash hands, cutting boards, counters, and utensils thoroughly after contact with raw fish 4
• Don't allow raw fish to come in contact with other foods 4

Nutritional Benefits of Properly Cooked Fish

• Fish consumption provides important nutrients for women trying to conceive:
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA)
  • Iodine (particularly important for fertility and early fetal development) 4
  • High-quality protein
  • Vitamin D and selenium 4, 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't assume that high-end restaurants or "fresh" raw fish are safe - parasites and bacteria can be present regardless of quality or source
• Don't substitute raw fish with other raw animal products (like raw eggs, raw meat, or unpasteurized dairy), as these carry similar risks 4, 1
• Don't wait until pregnancy is confirmed to avoid raw fish, as the earliest weeks are a critical period for development

Alternative Sources of Nutrients

• If you enjoy fish but want to avoid raw preparations:
  • Choose properly cooked fish options
  • Consider fish oil supplements if recommended by your healthcare provider
  • Consume other sources of omega-3 fatty acids like walnuts, flaxseeds, and omega-3 enriched eggs

By avoiding raw fish when trying to conceive, you're taking an important step to protect your health and the health of your future baby while still being able to enjoy the nutritional benefits of properly cooked fish.