Malaria is predominant in tropical regions. Usually, this infection erupts during the monsoon season as it provides the ground for mosquito breeding. Factors like humidity, temperature, and rainfall play a significant role in the occurrence of malaria.
Pregnancy is a tricky period. This article will tell you why you are vulnerable to malaria during pregnancy, how you can identify it and what you should do about it. Malaria can lead to complications in the mother and also the baby. Nevertheless, precautions and timely treatment will help you avoid any problems.
Why more risk to the pregnant?
When to suspect Malaria in Pregnancy?
In its early stage, the symptoms of malaria can be similar to those of influenza or viral infection. Only a blood test can help determine the exact infection. The common symptoms of malaria in pregnancy are high fever and sweating or feeling chills, nausea, headache, vomiting and muscle pain.
It is important to recognize and treat pregnancy malaria at the earliest because it presents potential risks to the lives of both mother and the unborn baby. The treatments include the use of anti-malarial drugs that are safe in pregnancy.
Severe malaria is a life-threatening infection that can lead to anemia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, cerebral malaria, and organ damages in the mother while it can cause low birth weight, vertical transmission, miscarriages and preterm delivery in the fetus. Therefore, a pregnant woman diagnosed with malaria must get immediate medical attention to reduce the chances of any pregnancy risks.
Prevention of Malaria In Pregnancy
Follow these preventive measures to minimize the likelihood of getting infected:
Pregnant women have weak immunity, which makes them susceptible to infectious diseases. If you are pregnant and have any signs of a recurrent fever, then visit a doctor. A blood test can help determine the cause of a fever. Timely medical intervention and proper nursing at home can bring you back to sound health.
