ABSTRACT: Among the many physiologic changes that occur during pregnancy, the maternal immune system is altered to dampen the maternal inflammatory response and allow for fetal antigen tolerance 1 2. Although such immunologic changes diminish the chance of fetal rejection, they potentially increase maternal and fetal vulnerability to certain infectious diseases. Common infections that cause mild-to-moderate disease in healthy adults and children can cause serious maternal and fetal complications if acquired during pregnancy. A unique concern with maternal infection is the potential for mother-to-child transmission or congenital infection. Cytomegalovirus (CMV), parvovirus B19, varicella zoster virus (VZV), and toxoplasmosis are common infections associated with moderate-to-severe fetal and infant complications when acquired congenitally. The purpose of this document is to update the current understanding of these infections, including their clinical presentations; their modes and risks of perinatal transmission; and their maternal, fetal, and infant effects, and to offer guidelines for preventing and managing these infections during pregnancy.
- Jump to
- Search page
-
Resources
Resources Close
By reading this page you agree to ACOG's Terms and Conditions. Read terms
Nonmembers: Subscribe now to access exclusive ACOG Clinical content, including:
ACOG Clinical is designed for easy and convenient access to the latest clinical guidance for patient care. Developed with members’, physicians’, and women’s health care professionals’ needs in mind, user-friendly features include:
- Easy, advanced search function to find the most relevant guidance
- Enhanced document presentation
- Advanced features and functionality
You’ll find clinical content written and peer reviewed by experts and valuable information that spans guidance on the diagnosis and management of the full spectrum of obstetric and gynecological conditions and clinical management issues.
Note for Life Fellows: Annual membership dues are waived but there is a discounted annual subscription fee of $95 for access to publications such as the Green Journal, Practice Bulletins, and Committee Opinions. Individual subscriptions include print and online access. Subscribe today.
Subscribe