ANTENATAL INFECTIONS

"ANTENATAL INFECTIONS MAY BE SILENT, BUT THEIR IMPACT CAN RESONATE THROUGH A LIFETIME; PREVENTION IS THE KEY. "

🧬 Antenatal infections, also known as prenatal infections, refer to infections that occur during pregnancy and can have severe implications for both the mother and the developing fetus. These infections can be caused by various organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
One common antenatal infection is:
🔹Group B Streptococcus (GBS):- a type of bacteria that can cause urinary tract infections, amniotic fluid infections, and even bloodstream infections in pregnant women. If left untreated, GBS can be transmitted to the baby during delivery and lead to serious complications such as sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis.

Another well-known antenatal infection is:
🔹Cytomegalovirus (CMV):- a type of herpes virus. CMV infection during pregnancy can result in severe birth defects, including hearing and vision loss, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays, if the virus is transmitted to the baby.

Other antenatal infections include: 
🔹Toxoplasmosis:- which can be contracted from contaminated food or cat feces and can cause miscarriage or birth defects.
🔹Syphilis:- a sexually transmitted infection that can cause stillbirth or congenital syphilis in the baby; and 
🔹Zika virus:- which can lead to microcephaly and other neurological problems in the baby.

ℹ️ It's essential for pregnant women to receive regular antenatal care to monitor and manage any potential infections. Screening for certain infections, such as GBS and syphilis, is routine during pregnancy. Proper hygiene practices, such as handwashing, cooking meat thoroughly, and avoiding contact with cat litter, can help prevent infections like CMV and toxoplasmosis.

💊 Treatment for antenatal infections varies depending on the specific pathogen involved. Antibiotics are commonly used to treat bacterial infections, while antiviral medications may be prescribed for viral infections. In some cases, medication may be given to the baby after birth to prevent or treat any potential complications.

⚠️ In an oystershell, it is crucial for pregnant women to maintain good hygiene, follow healthcare provider recommendations, and seek timely medical attention if they suspect they have an antenatal infection. With proper care and treatment, the risk of complications can be reduced, and the health of both the mother and the baby can be safeguarded.

#AntenatalInfections #Pregnancy #Fetus #Bacteria #Viruses #Parasites #GBS #Streptococcus #UTI #AFI #Sepsis #Pneumonia #Meningitis #CMV #Birthdefects #Toxoplasmosis #Miscarriage #Syphilis #ZikaVirus #Screening #Hygiene #ZosterVirus #ChickenPox #Chlamydia #CoxsackieVirus #Erythema #HIV.

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