Final answer:
Perinatal infections can be caused by factors such as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and bacterial infections. PPROM increases the risk of preterm labor and subsequent infection in the newborn. Bacterial infections, such as puerperal fever and vaginitis, can also pose risks to both the mother and the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Perinatal infections can be caused by various factors, including preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and bacterial infections. In the case of PPROM, which is the leaking of the amniotic sac before 38 weeks of gestation, the cause can be bacterial infection or structural defects in the amniotic sac, uterus, or cervix. This condition increases the risk of preterm labor and the subsequent risk of infection in the newborn.
For bacterial infections that can cause perinatal infections, appropriate diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Puerperal fever, for example, is a bacterial infection of the female reproductive organs that often affects women who have just given birth. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is performed to determine the best antibiotic for treatment, and preventive measures such as antiseptics and handwashing protocols can greatly reduce the risk in healthcare settings.
Vaginitis, which can be caused by bacterial imbalance, is another condition that can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Pregnant women should be screened for infections such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), Listeria monocytogenes, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) during prenatal tests to detect and manage such infections. These infections can have serious consequences for fetal development and health.