Congenital and perinatal infections

Abstract

A large number of microorganisms is capable of crossing the placenta and infecting the ferns with diverse results. If a mother acquires a primary infection during pregnancy, the outcome may vary from spontaneous abortion to fetal death, premature birth or congenital disease. In addition, some sexually transmitted pathogens and also normal cervical-vaginal bacteria may infect the fetus by ascension from the lower genital tract or by direct contact during delivery.

Full Text

The adverse outcome may be prevented by detection and treatment m pregnancy or by immunization before or after gestation. In some cases, hygienic precautions and appropriate advice can significantly reduce the risk.

This presentation reviews the current knowledge of the most important viral, protozoal and bacterial infections in pregnancy, their impact on fetus, and the preventive methods offered today.