“Experts emphasize that early screening and vaccinations can help prevent miscarriages, birth defects, and lifelong disabilities, highlighting why prenatal testing is essential.”
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Hidden Dangers During Pregnancy: Why Early Screening for Prenatal Infections Matters
Pregnancy is often a time of excitement and joyful planning—choosing baby names, decorating the nursery, and attending regular check-ups. But beneath the happiness lies a silent risk: prenatal infections that can pass from mother to baby and cause serious, lifelong harm.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), congenital infections are a major contributor to neonatal illness and mortality worldwide. The good news? Many of these infections are preventable or treatable, but only if detected early through systematic screening and vaccination. In countries like India, where maternal and child mortality remains high, timely detection can make a life-saving difference.
From TORCH infections to syphilis, Group B Streptococcus, and mosquito-borne viruses like Zika, experts stress that awareness and early testing can dramatically improve outcomes for both mother and child.
"These infections may not show immediate symptoms, but they can lead to miscarriage, growth restrictions, hearing or vision loss, and lifelong neurodevelopmental delays," says Dr. Priyanka Dass, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru.
What Are Prenatal (Congenital) Infections?
Prenatal, or congenital, infections occur when pathogens cross the placenta or infect the baby during delivery. A common grouping used by doctors is TORCH, which includes:
Toxoplasmosis
Rubella
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Herpes simplex virus
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these infections can lead to birth defects, developmental delays, or even foetal loss.
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1. Syphilis: A Preventable Tragedy
Syphilis is a clear example of how early screening can save lives. According to the WHO, untreated maternal syphilis causes over 300,000 foetal and neonatal deaths worldwide each year.
"For infections such as syphilis, early detection and treatment with penicillin during pregnancy can prevent congenital syphilis," says Dr. Priyanka Dass, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru. "Without treatment, syphilis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns."
The WHO recommends universal antenatal syphilis screening at the first prenatal visit. Early treatment is safe, inexpensive, and highly effective.
2. Group B Streptococcus (GBS): Screening That Saves Lives
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacteria are often harmless in adults but can cause life-threatening infections in newborns. The CDC recommends routine GBS screening between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy.
"Women who test positive can receive antibiotics during labour, dramatically reducing early newborn infections," explains Dr. Dass. "This simple, evidence-based approach has saved countless lives."
3. CMV: The Silent Threat
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common congenital infection worldwide. The CDC estimates 1 in 200 babies is born with congenital CMV, and about 1 in 5 of these children develops long-term health problems, including hearing loss.
"CMV often goes undetected until complications appear," says Dr. Dass. "Universal screening is complicated, and there is currently no vaccine."
Since CMV spreads through bodily fluids, simple measures like frequent handwashing, especially after handling young children, can help reduce risk.
4. Rubella: The Power of Vaccination
Rubella during pregnancy can cause Congenital Rubella Syndrome, resulting in deafness, heart defects, and developmental delays. Fortunately, widespread vaccination has drastically reduced rubella worldwide.
"Some infections, like rubella, are best prevented through vaccination," says Dr. Dass. She stresses that live vaccines should not be given during pregnancy, but immunity should be checked before conception or early in pregnancy.
5. Zika: A Public Health Wake-Up Call
The 2015–2016 Zika outbreak highlighted how emerging infections can devastate pregnancies. Zika infection during pregnancy was linked to microcephaly and severe neurological complications in newborns.
"The outbreak showed how catastrophic outcomes can be when new infections target pregnant women," explains Dr. Dass. "Monitoring systems and rapid identification are critical to protect mothers and babies."
What Expectant Parents Should Do
Dr. Dass offers practical advice for expecting parents:
Get screened for infections: syphilis at the first visit, rubella immunity early, and GBS in the late third trimester.
Vaccinate wherever possible; vaccines like rubella are highly effective.
Maintain hygiene: wash hands frequently and handle food safely to prevent infections like toxoplasmosis.
Minimise mosquito exposure, especially in outbreak-prone areas.
Practice safe sex.
Seek immediate medical care if an infection is detected.
Both the CDC and WHO emphasize that early diagnosis allows timely treatment, significantly reducing complications. Prenatal infections are often silent but can have lifelong consequences. From syphilis and GBS, where screening is highly effective, to CMV and emerging threats like Zika, vigilance during pregnancy is essential.
"Prenatal infections are preventable or manageable—but only if we look for them," Dr. Dass concludes. "Early screening isn’t about alarm; it’s about giving clinicians the chance to act and parents the chance to protect their child."
With proper testing, vaccination, and awareness, many devastating outcomes can be avoided, turning hidden threats into manageable risks.
Disclaimer: This content provides general information and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance.