Bacterial and Viral Infections Linked to Miscarriage / Pregnancy Loss
August 12, 2008 by rainier
Some viral and bacterial infections increase the risk of pregnancy loss. While a few infectious illnesses are well documented risk factors for miscarriage, some newer studies indicate that even a few common vaginal infections can mean an increased risk of miscarriage.
Some of these infections are limited in course but others can be chronic. Remember that if you are concerned that you may have any of these infections that you should talk to your doctor about testing and/or treatment.
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection that causes a fish-like odor, itching, burning after intercourse, and thin white or gray vaginal discharge. Some women may have no symptoms at all. Some research has tied bacterial vaginosis infection in pregnancy to both first and second trimester miscarriage, as well as higher risk of preterm delivery, although researchers are still examining how this specific infection relates to miscarriage.
Chlamydia
Doctors have long known that chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases boost the odds of developing pelvic inflammatory disease, a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy. Researchers have found evidence that chlamydia might increase miscarriage risk in another way also — a 2007 study found evidence the bacteria can alter immune response against an early pregnancy.
Foodborne Infections
Certain types of bacterial food poisoning, such as Listeria and Salmonella infections, are tied to miscarriage risks. Listeria is a risk in unpasteurized cheese and deli meats, which causes the disease listeriosis, and Salmonella is common in poultry, red meat, and uncooked eggs.
Toxoplasmosis
A few workers in our area got Salmonella poisoning. It is a good thing that they did not die and they have fully recovered. `