Author: Treyveon Chatman
Meningitis during pregnancy poses risks to both the mother and the developing fetus, which makes pregnant women more susceptible to infections due to immunological changes.
Bacterial meningitis, though rare, can be particularly dangerous. It can cause miscarriage, preterm birth, or severe neonatal infections. Viral meningitis generally has a better prognosis but still requires medical attention to prevent complications.
Symptoms in pregnant women may include high fever, severe headache, vomiting, and altered mental health. A meningitis diagnosis in women is sometimes delayed due to the complexity of differentiating the symptoms from other conditions that yield similar symptoms. Therefore, treatment typically involves antibiotics for bacterial infections and supportive care for viral infections.
A preventive measure is vaccinating before or during pregnancy, which provides protection against certain types of bacterial meningitis.
Proactive measures such as education and awareness about the symptoms and risks of meningitis in pregnancy are vital for early intervention and prevention.
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