Poorly treated malaria in pregnancy can hinder babies’ growth - Gynaecologists
Gynaecologists warn that untreated malaria during pregnancy significantly increases risks of stillbirth, premature birth, and low birth weight. Experts emphasize that early diagnosis and preventive care are essential to protect both the mother and the developing foetus.
Why it matters
Malaria remains a leading cause of maternal and infant mortality in Nigeria, highlighting a critical public health crisis that requires urgent medical intervention.
Poorly treated malaria during pregnancy can inflame the placenta, reduce the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the unborn baby, and increase the risk of growth restriction, premature birth, and even stillbirth, maternal health experts have warned.
The specialists also cautioned that pregnancy lowers a woman’s natural immunity, making her more susceptible to severe malaria and its complications.
They stressed that early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and preventive medication remain critical to protecting both mother and child.
According to the World Health Organisation, malaria infection during pregnancy is a major public health problem, with substantial risks for the mother, her foetus, and the neonate.
In 2018, 11 million pregnant women were infected with malaria in areas of moderate and high disease transmission in sub-Saharan Africa, and as a result, nearly 900, 000 children were born with low birth weight, according to WHO estimates.
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