Dangers of dengue during pregnancy: It can increase preterm labour, affect the growth of baby

Pregnant women with dengue can potentially transmit the virus to their babies before birth. Dengue can have harmful effects on the unborn baby like low birth weight and sometimes more dreaded concerns like still births. (Image: Canva)

During the monsoon season, the increased rain and humidity create ideal conditions for insect-borne diseases like dengue. This illness poses a higher risk for pregnant women, so it's crucial for them to take precautions and seek medical help promptly.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever is transmitted through Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to humans. Some prominent symptoms of dengue include fever, bad headaches, eye pain, joint and muscle pain, skin rash, and sometimes bleeding from the nose or gums. Pregnant women are particularly at risk from dengue due to changes in the immune system, which can have serious consequences for both them and their unborn babies.

Dangers of dengue during pregnancy

Health risks: Dengue fever can lead to issues like dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS) which can be life-threatening, says Dr Joshitha Naik. MBBS, DGO, DNB, CIMP, Apollo Cradle and Children’s hospital, Jayanagar, Bangalore. Dr Naik says that pregnant women are at higher risk because their bodies go through changes that affect their system and blood circulation.

Labour: Dengue infections during pregnancy can increase the likelihood of preterm labour, says Dr Naik. The stress on the mother's body and dehydration may trigger early contractions.

Transmission risk: Pregnant women with dengue can potentially transmit the virus to their babies before birth. Dengue can have harmful effects on the unborn baby like low birth weight and sometimes more dreaded concerns like still births. During pregnancy or childbirth, there is a risk of dengue transmission, requiring immediate neonatal care.

Complications with the placenta: According to Dr Naik, dengue can adversely affect the development and growth of the baby. In instances, it may trigger placental abruption, a critical situation where the placenta separates from the uterus prematurely.

Preventive measures

Mosquito avoidance: Pregnant women should minimise their exposure to mosquitoes, particularly during peak biting times early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 is safe for pregnant women when used as directed.

Environmental control: Avoid letting water stagnate around home, it can lead to mosquito breeding. Regularly empty, clean, or cover any containers that can hold water, such as buckets, flowerpots, and bird baths, says Dr Naik.

Protective clothing: Try to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever possible to prevent skin exposure to mosquito bites. For extra protection, consider wearing clothing treated with permethrin.

Using mosquito nets: Sleeping under mosquito nets, especially during daylight naps, significantly reduces the risk of mosquito bites.

Home protection: Make sure your windows and doors have proper screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Seeking medical attention: A pregnant woman, if showing typical symptoms of dengue fever, should be immediately brought to the hospital, says Dr Naik. A timely diagnosis with proper supportive care would help in reducing serious complications. Keeping the patient well-hydrated, monitoring for warning signs of severe dengue, and managing other symptoms are crucial for effective treatment.