TORCH infection In Pregnancy are a group of infectious diseases that affect a developing baby (foetus) or newborn baby. If a mother gets the disease it can be passed to the child during pregnancy. It includes toxoplasmosis, others (syphilis, hepatitis B), rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex.
How does a child get the TORCH infection In Pregnancy?
- Through the placenta: Certain diseases are carried through your bloodstream to your baby's blood through the placenta during pregnancy.
- During childbirth: Your baby can catch a TORCH infection while passing through the birth canal during a vaginal birth.
- After birth: You can pass an infection to your baby through your breastmilk if you are breastfeeding.
What are the signs and symptoms of TORCH infection In Pregnancy?
Early signs can be : (Age group between birth to 2 years)
- Fever
- Development of a small head or microcephaly
- Low birth weight
- Lethargy
- Cataracts
- Hearing loss
- Congenital heart disease
- Enlargement of the liver and spleen
Late signs can be: (Age group after 2 years)
- Vision impairment or loss
- Intellectual disability
- Deafness
- Seizures
Infected newborns can also appear:
- Reddish-brown spots on their skin
- Yellowish pigmentation of the skin and eyes
How can we lower the risk for TORCH infection during pregnancy?
Few things need to be followed to avoid the risk of infection like:
- -Avoid contact with people who are sick
- -Wash your hands often
- -Don’t share drinks or utensils with other people
- -Avoid travelling to parts of the world where certain infectious diseases are prevalent
- -Eat fully-cooked meat and eggs
- -Get tested for STIs before pregnancy
- -Take antiviral medications as directed by your doctor.
The best way to prevent TORCH infection is to practice good hygiene during pregnancy and wear condoms during sexual intercourse. TORCH infections are rare but can have serious implications for your baby because they don't have a strong immune system. Be sure to tell your doctor your full medical and vaccination history, including if you've been treated for sexually transmitted infections. Babies with TORCH infections make a full recovery.