What is the recommended duration for washing hands to prevent infections during pregnancy?

The recommended duration for washing hands to prevent infections during pregnancy is 20 seconds. This duration is supported by various health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which suggests that washing hands for at least 20 seconds is effective in removing germs and reducing the risk of infections.

During pregnancy, maintaining good hygiene is particularly important, as pregnant individuals are more susceptible to certain infections that can affect both their health and that of the developing fetus. Proper handwashing helps eliminate harmful pathogens that may be present on the skin, especially after using the restroom, before eating, or after handling potentially contaminated items.

The specific recommendation of 20 seconds is based on studies that have shown that this time frame is adequate for effectively using soap and water to clean hands. Recommendations for shorter times, like 10 seconds, may not be as effective at thoroughly cleaning the hands, while longer durations, such as 30 or 60 seconds, can be useful but are often not necessary for the general practice of handwashing in everyday situations. Hence, 20 seconds strikes a balance between effectiveness and practicality.