Malaria In Pregnancy: How To Safely Prevent It?

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Every year on 25 April, World Malaria Day (WMD) is observed to recognise global efforts to combat malaria. Globally, 3.3 billion people live in 106 countries where malaria is a serious health threat.

In May 2007, the World Health Assembly, WHO's decision-making body, established World Malaria Day. The idea for World Malaria Day originated from efforts being taken across the African continent to commemorate Africa Malaria Day.

The theme for World Malaria Day 2023 is "Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement."

On the event of World Malaria Day, we will look into the complications and risks of malaria in pregnancy and how you can prevent it.

Malaria In Pregnancy

Malaria is a serious and potentially deadly disease that can have a significant impact on pregnant women and their unborn babies. It is estimated that pregnant women are at least three times more likely to become infected with malaria and are at greater risk of developing severe malaria, particularly in their second and third trimesters [1].

What happens in malaria in pregnancy? What are the symptoms?

Malaria infection in pregnancy can result in a variety of complications, including anaemia, foetal growth restriction, intrauterine death, pre-term labour and delivery, and low birth weight. There is also a greater risk of maternal death from malaria, especially in areas with high levels of drug resistance [2].

Malaria In Pregnancy: How To Safely Prevent It?

The first step to preventing malaria in pregnancy is to take antimalarial medication as prescribed by your doctor. This may include taking daily antimalarial drugs or taking them at certain times during pregnancy, depending on the advice of the healthcare provider [3].

It is also important to avoid mosquito bites, as mosquitoes can carry the disease-causing parasites. This can be done by using insect repellent, wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts in areas where mosquitoes are common, and sleeping under a mosquito net at night [4].

Additionally, pregnant women should get tested for malaria at least once during each trimester of pregnancy. This can help detect any malaria infections early, so that the necessary treatment can be provided. If malaria is diagnosed, it is important to complete the full course of treatment, as prescribed by your doctor [5].

Moreover, pregnant women should be sure to keep up with their regular prenatal visits. These visits can help to identify any risk factors for malaria in pregnancy, as well as monitor both mother's and baby's health.

On A Final Note...

Although malaria is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, it is possible to prevent and manage it in pregnant women.

Through the use of preventive measures such as insecticide-treated bed nets, preventive intermittent preventive treatment, and prompt and appropriate treatment, the risk of severe complications of malaria in pregnancy can be significantly reduced.