What impact does fungal infection during pregnancy have on the baby?

Fungal infections during pregnancy may lead to intrauterine infection, skin infection, respiratory infection, eye infection, or impaired fetal development in the baby. The severity varies depending on the type of infection, and timely intervention is necessary. If symptoms of fungal infection occur during pregnancy or an infection is suspected, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are recommended.

1. Intrauterine infection: Severe fungal infections during pregnancy, such as candidemia, may cross the placenta and infect the fetus, causing organ infections in the lungs, liver, and other systems. This increases the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, and in severe cases, can endanger the fetus's life.

2. Skin infection: During delivery, if the newborn comes into contact with maternal genital tract fungi, it may easily develop cutaneous candidiasis, presenting with redness, papules, and scaling. These symptoms commonly occur in skin folds such as the neck and armpits, affecting the baby’s skin health.

3. Respiratory infection: Newborns who inhale secretions containing fungi may develop fungal pneumonia, manifesting as cough, rapid breathing, and fever. Due to their weak immune systems, newborns are prone to rapid disease progression once infected.

4. Eye infection: Fungal invasion of a newborn’s eyes may cause conjunctivitis or keratitis, leading to increased eye discharge, conjunctival redness, and photophobia. Untimely treatment may impair visual development.

5. Impaired development: Persistent, uncontrolled fungal infections during pregnancy may cause maternal metabolic disturbances and poor nutrient absorption, indirectly affecting normal fetal growth and increasing the risk of delayed fetal development.

Pregnant women should maintain good personal hygiene, keep the genital area clean and dry, wear loose, breathable cotton clothing, follow a balanced diet to enhance immunity, and avoid indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Prompt intervention is essential upon experiencing symptoms such as itching or abnormal discharge to reduce the risk of infection.