Pregnancy is often a time when women become extra conscious about their health, diet, and medical care. However, even when an expecting mother feels perfectly healthy, certain infections can silently develop without causing any noticeable symptoms. These are known as asymptomatic infections, and they can pose serious risks to the developing baby if not detected early.
Medical experts such as Dr Alka Chaudhary, Senior Consultant – Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Rainbow Hospital, and Dr Tripti Raheja, Director – Obstetrics & Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, emphasise the importance of routine antenatal screening. They highlight that many infections do not produce visible signs in pregnant women, making regular testing critical for safeguarding the baby’s health.
One of the most common silent infections is Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Most adults may have been exposed to this virus at some point, and it often causes no symptoms. However, if transmitted to the foetus, congenital CMV can result in hearing loss, developmental delays, vision impairment, and neurological complications.
Toxoplasmosis is another infection that may go unnoticed in the mother. It is commonly contracted through undercooked meat, contaminated soil, or handling cat litter. While the mother may feel fine, the baby could face severe consequences such as miscarriage, brain damage, or eye disorders.
Rubella, though often mild in adults, is particularly dangerous in early pregnancy. If contracted during the first trimester, it can lead to congenital defects including heart abnormalities, hearing loss, and vision problems. Vaccination before pregnancy remains one of the most effective preventive measures.
Other infections such as Hepatitis B, HIV, Syphilis, and Group B Streptococcus (GBS) can also be present without symptoms in the mother but may pass to the baby during pregnancy or delivery. Without timely intervention, these infections can cause serious complications like stillbirth, prematurity, sepsis, pneumonia, or lifelong health conditions.
Doctors strongly recommend routine blood tests and screenings during pregnancy, even when there are no signs of illness. Early detection allows for timely treatment, significantly reducing risks to the unborn child.
The key message is simple yet powerful: Feeling healthy does not always mean everything is fine. Regular prenatal care, preventive measures, vaccinations, and proper hygiene practices are essential to ensure a safe pregnancy and a healthy start for the baby.
