(1) Urinary track infections. Infections of the urinary track are common during pregnancy. The infections are caused by the narrowing of the lower urethra and dilation of the upper urethra. This action results in a slowing of urination, which increases the risk of infection.
(2) Venereal diseases. Venereal disease (VD) or sexually-transmitted disease (STD) refers to one of a number of infectious diseases that are transmitted through sexual contact and may be localized or systemic. Common types of VD are gonorrhea, syphilis, venereal warts, and herpes simplex type II. Microorganisms from these diseases can cross the placenta barrier, placing the fetus at risk.
(3) Human immunodeficiency virus. The transmission of human immunodeficiency virus occurs primarily through the exchange of body fluids (blood, semen, and perinatal events). Severe depression of the cellular immune system characterizes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Exposure to the virus has a significant impact on the woman's pregnancy, the newborn's feeding method, and the newborn's health status. The HIV from infected pregnant women is transmitted in three ways:
