Final answer:
During pregnancy, infectious diseases can cause serious fetal complications, particularly in the first trimester. The mother's weakened immune system and factors such as TORCH infections can lead to congenital defects and even fetal loss. Proper prenatal care and screening are vital for protecting the fetus's health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Effects of Infectious Diseases on Pregnancy
If a pregnant woman is exposed to an infectious disease, the consequences for the fetus can be serious, especially during the first trimester. Infections during pregnancy, such as rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), or toxoplasmosis, can lead to severe complications including spontaneous abortion, congenital defects, and developmental delays. The mother's immune system is downregulated during pregnancy, which makes her and the fetus more vulnerable to these infections.
Some infectious diseases can cross the placenta, causing problems like mental ret-ardation, deafness, blindness, and even fetal loss. The rubella virus, for example, is highly teratogenic early in pregnancy, potentially resulting in diverse birth defects or fetal death. Therefore, prenatal care, including TORCH screening and careful lifestyle choices, is critical for the health of both the mother and fetus.
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, with long-term cognitive and developmental issues for the child. However, there is no direct link between maternal infections and an increased risk of having a child with Down syndrome, which is mainly associated with maternal age and certain genetic factors.