Infection During Pregnancy: Complications and Causes

Staying healthy during pregnancy is a top priority for any expectant mother. So when a mother develops an infection during pregnancy, or has one when she discovers her pregnancy, it’s extremely important for their doctor to take appropriate measures to protect both the mother and the baby. In some cases, even an infection that would be considered routine and unlikely to cause long-term harm with proper treatment can potentially cause problems during pregnancy or delivery.

An important part of prenatal care should include screening for infections so that they can be treated early on and prevent complications. Infections are often safe to treat during pregnancy and many types of antibiotics are not harmful at this time. For instance, bacterial vaginosis and UTIs can result in an increased risk of premature rupture of membranes and preterm labor. Other types of infections can increase the risk of harming the child’s development or result in other illnesses to the child, including syphilis, toxoplasmosis, hepatitis, cytomegalovirus, rubella, and chorioamnionitis. 

Some types of infections that can be transmitted to the baby during delivery and a C-section can be performed to prevent the baby from contracting the virus. Some of these viruses can include HIV, herpes, and group B streptococcus. Group B streptococcus infections are one example of a type of a common infection that typically isn’t harmful to non-pregnant adults, but may be harmful to a baby. When this type of infection develops in a pregnant woman and it’s transmitted to the baby, it can result in problems like seizures, pneumonia, and sepsis. 

If a doctor neglects to properly screen for and treat infections during pregnancy or fails to treat and manage them properly, it may be considered a case of medical malpractice

Contact a Michigan Birth Trauma Lawyer

The effects of an untreated or mismanaged infection during pregnancy can potentially last for the rest of the child’s life. If you believe your child was injured by an infection, don’t hesitate to contact a birth trauma lawyer. Sometimes, it can take time for the signs of birth trauma to begin to show. But even if your child is a few years old, you may still have legal options. The very tragic reality is that birth trauma could have been prevented. 

At Goodwin & Scieszka, we’ve helped many people like you who have been in your shoes. We’re also experienced in handling Michigan medical malpractice claims, so we’re well prepared to help. Contact us today so that we can learn more about your case.

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