Infections in Pregnancy

Infections in Pregnancy – Treatments & Procedure in Jaipur

Pregnancy can make women more susceptible to certain infections and also alter the severity of these infections. Sometimes, even mild infections can lead to serious illness in pregnant mothers. Not all infections are transmitted to the baby, but when this occurs, the baby is at high risk for health complications.

Why are pregnant women more susceptible to infections?

Pregnancy causes changes in immune system function and hormone levels that can make you vulnerable to infections.
During pregnancy, the immune system changes in a way so some parts of your immune system are enhanced while others are suppressed. This balance is necessary to prevent infections in the baby but without compromising the health of the pregnant mother. These changes in immune system are important as they help protect your baby from your own body’s defense mechanisms.
Along with changes in the immune system, some changes occur in other body systems that increase the susceptibility for infections like urinary tract infections, pneumonia and others.

Common Infections during pregnancy

Common infections that occur during pregnancy include urinary tract infections, vaginitis, TORCH infections (Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes), Parvovirus infection, syphilis, listeriosis, HIV, Hepatitis, GBS and many more.

What are the risks for mother and baby?

Risks for mother

Infections like urinary tract infections, vaginitis, and postpartum infections problems primarily for the mother.

Risks for baby

Cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis and parvovirus can be transmitted from mother to baby that may have serious consequences.

How to prevent infections in pregnancy?

Infections in pregnancy are easily preventable by keeping few points in mind:

• Regularly wash your hands with soap and water.
• Never eat undercooked meat
• Don’t consume unpasteurized, or raw, dairy products.
• Avoid changing cat litter and stay away from wild or pet rodents.
• Don’t share eating utensils, cups, and food with other people.
• Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor right away if you’re sick or you’ve been exposed to a contagious disease. The sooner an infection is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome for you and your baby.