Pregnancy is an exceptional period in every woman's life. The choices and behaviour of the expectant mother have a significant impact not only on her wellbeing but also on the proper development of her unborn offspring. It is particularly important to deal with colds and infections, which may seem innocuous, but inadequate medical care can lead to serious repercussions. Therefore, possessing reliable and safe information about the methods of handling them, especially during pregnancy, is key to ensuring the best health for both mother and child.
Potential hazards of infections during pregnancy
Infections during pregnancy can pose significant risks to both maternal and fetal health. They may elevate the likelihood of severe inflammatory conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or otitis media. Additionally, they can contribute to premature rupture of membranes, which is associated with preterm delivery. Infections may also exacerbate pre-existing conditions like asthma or diabetes, leading to worsened symptoms or complications. For the fetus, untreated infections can have particularly severe consequences. Severe infections, particularly viral ones, increase the risk of miscarriage, congenital developmental abnormalities, and low birth weight, which in turn is linked to a higher likelihood of health complications in infancy, childhood, and even adulthood (M. Y. Chan, M. A. Smith 2018).
You have started reading a PRO article
You can preview the first chapter. To read the complete article and unlock all content, upgrade to a PRO account.