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Published on: June 24, 2020
Parasitic infections in pregnancy
Sarah Dotters-Katz1, Jeffrey Kuller, R Phillips Heine
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA. sarah.dotters-katz@duke.edu
Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey
|October 25, 2011
Summary
Parasitic infections during pregnancy pose risks to both mothers and babies. This review offers guidance for healthcare providers on managing these infections, categorizing them by their primary impact on the mother, fetus, or placenta.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Parasitic infections are a global health concern affecting millions of pregnant women.
- Increased international travel leads to greater exposure for pregnant individuals in non-endemic regions.
- Healthcare providers need updated guidelines for managing parasitic infections in pregnant patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide evidence-based guidelines for the management of common parasitic infections in pregnancy.
- To categorize parasitic infections based on their preferential impact on the maternal-fetal unit.
- To enhance healthcare providers' ability to diagnose and treat parasitic infections during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review including case reports, case series, and clinical trials.
- Assessment of existing research on parasitic infections in pregnant populations.
- Synthesis of findings to develop clinical management strategies.
Main Results:
- Parasitic infections can cause a range of adverse maternal, fetal, and placental outcomes.
- Infections preferentially impact specific components of the maternal-fetal unit.
- Categorization aids in understanding and addressing the unique risks posed by different parasites.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of parasitic infections in pregnancy requires understanding their specific effects.
- Categorizing infections by target (mother, fetus, placenta) informs treatment approaches.
- Updated clinical guidelines are essential for optimizing care for pregnant women with parasitic infections.
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