processes of two beings are here linked together. They generally
proceed harmoniously, but if they do not there results an
autointoxication of the mother which is called a toxemia.

Such toxemias, with extremely rare exceptions, do not occur in the
early months, but are associated with the period of the active growth
of the fetus, namely, the second half of pregnancy. For this reason,
and for some others which do not concern us here, it seems probable
that the nutritional processes of the child are primarily responsible
for these ailments. This view, however, must be somewhat modified,
for experience has clearly taught that the efficiency with which the
maternal excretory organs do their work has a great deal to do with
the effect that the fetal waste products have upon the mother. On
this account she has been urged to pay attention to personal hygiene.
It is also necessary, however, that she should become acquainted with
the symptoms which give warning that the excretory organs are acting
imperfectly.

Autointoxication can almost always be prevented. The means of
prevention are neither mysterious nor difficult to carry out; they
lie within the power of every prospective mother, for they consist
merely of what has already been discussed, namely, the intelligent
regulation of the diet, the care of the body, and a correct ordering
of the daily life. To the chapters dealing with these subjects
reference should be made and particular attention should be paid to
what has been said concerning:

(1) Wearing suitably warm clothes,
(2) Bathing regularly,
(3) Taking a proper amount of exercise,