Complications of Pregnancy: Infections

Introduction

• Speaker: Meris
• Topic: Complications of pregnancy, focusing on infections that pose risks to the developing fetus
• Resource: Maternity flashcards from Level Up RN

TORCH Infections

• TORCH: Mnemonic for teratogenic infections (harmful to pregnancy)
  • T: Toxoplasmosis
  • O: Other (varicella, syphilis, parvovirus)
  • R: Rubella
  • C: Cytomegalovirus
  • H: Herpes Simplex Virus

Toxoplasmosis

• Type: Parasitic infection
• Sources: Cat feces, dirt, undercooked foods
• Prevention: Avoid cleaning cat boxes, gardening, and ensure all food is cooked thoroughly

Other (Varicella, Syphilis, Parvovirus)

• Listed as teratogenic infections

Rubella

• Alias: German measles
• Vaccine: MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Testing: Pregnant patients tested for rubella immunity
• Contraindications: Live virus vaccines contraindicated during pregnancy
• Advice: Avoid contact with known rubella cases, vaccinate postpartum

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

• Family: Part of the herpes virus family
• Action: Test and monitor pregnant patients, avoid contact with suspected CMV cases

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

• Transmission: Can be passed to baby during childbirth if active lesions are present
• Prevention: Antivirals during pregnancy, C-section if active lesions
• Advice: Do not kiss babies to prevent HSV transmission

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Common STIs during Pregnancy

• Gonorrhea & Chlamydia: Often asymptomatic, can cause ophthalmia neonatorum in newborns
  • Prevention: Erythromycin ointment for all newborn babies
• Syphilis: Treatable with penicillin G
• Trichomoniasis: Protozoan infection causing yellow-green discharge, itching, painful urination; treatable with antibiotics

HIV and AIDS

• Transmission: Through blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk
• Contraindication: Strong contraindication to breastfeeding
• C-Section: Recommended at 38 weeks if viral load > 1,000 copies/ml
• Avoid Procedures: Chorionic villus sampling, episiotomy, forceps, vacuum extraction, and internal fetal monitors
• Patient Education: Importance of medication adherence, proper hygiene, and healthy diet

Conclusion

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