Prenatal Infections – What You Need to Know to Protect Yourself and Your Baby
Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative time, but it also comes with new health considerations for you and your growing baby.
One important aspect of prenatal care is understanding prenatal infections, illnesses that can occur during pregnancy and may pose risks to both mother and child.
What Are Prenatal Infections?
As the name suggests, prenatal infections are infections that occur during pregnancy and can potentially be passed from mother to baby.
Some of these infections may have mild or no symptoms in the mother, but they can significantly impact the developing fetus. However, infections and sepsis are the second leading cause of maternal deaths in the United States.
Early detection and treatment are key to reducing complications and ensuring a healthy pregnancy.
Common Types of Prenatal Infections
Some of the most common prenatal infections include:
Cytomegalovirus (CMV): A common virus that can cause hearing loss, vision problems, or developmental delays in newborns if transmitted during pregnancy.
Toxoplasmosis: Caused by a parasite found in undercooked meat and cat feces, toxoplasmosis can lead to miscarriage or congenital disabilities if contracted during pregnancy.
Group B Streptococcus (GBS): A bacterial infection that can be passed to the baby during delivery, potentially causing pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis.
Listeriosis: A bacterial infection from contaminated food, which increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth.
Rubella (German Measles): A viral infection that can cause congenital rubella syndrome, leading to heart defects, deafness, and developmental issues.
Zika Virus: Transmitted by mosquito bites, this virus has been linked to severe congenital disabilities such as microcephaly.
Hepatitis B and C: These viruses can be passed from mother to baby during childbirth and may cause liver disease in the newborn.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): If a mother has an active herpes infection during delivery, the baby may be exposed and develop neonatal herpes, a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
How Can Prenatal Infections Affect You and Your Baby?
Prenatal infections can have varying effects, depending on the type of infection, the stage of pregnancy, and the mother’s overall health. Potential risks include:
For the Baby: Miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, congenital disabilities, low birth weight, neurological impairments, and infections at birth.
For the Mother: Increased risk of preterm labor, pregnancy complications, and serious infections that can lead to long-term health concerns.
Protecting Yourself and Your Baby
While not all infections can be prevented, you can take steps to reduce your risk:
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after handling food, pets, or being in public places.
- Get recommended vaccinations before and during pregnancy.
- Avoid undercooked meats, unpasteurized dairy, and raw seafood.
- Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses.
- Practice safe food handling to prevent listeriosis and toxoplasmosis.
- Get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and follow your doctor’s guidance on prenatal care.
Signs and Symptoms of Prenatal Infections
While some prenatal infections may not present obvious symptoms, here are common signs to watch for:
- Fever or chills
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Skin rashes
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Flu-like symptoms (body aches, sore throat, cough)
- Pain or burning during urination
- Unusual vaginal discharge or itching
- Decreased fetal movement
- Severe headaches or vision changes
When to Go to the ER
If you experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:
- High fever (over 100.4°F) that does not go down with medication
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Severe headaches or blurred vision
- Sudden swelling in your face, hands, or feet
- Decreased or no fetal movement
- Signs of preterm labor (regular contractions, back pain, or fluid leakage)
- Shortness of breath or chest pain