Chlamydia are bacteria that can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse. They are the most common pathogens of sexually transmitted diseases in Germany. They can be transmitted to the newborn at birth and can cause serious complications if left untreated. Therefore, a Chlamydia infection during pregnancy must always be treated. If detected in time, however, it is very easily treatable for both mother and child and the risk of consequential damage is low.
How dangerous is a Chlamydia infection for the child?
The bacteria are transmitted during birth when passing through the birth canal. If the birth canal is infected with Chlamydia, the infection is transmitted to the newborn in about two thirds of cases. Half of the infected children develop conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye) in the first two weeks of life.
In most cases, the inflammation initially occurs unilaterally and spreads to the other eye in the course of a week. It is usually manifested by severely reddened conjunctiva, purulent secretion from the eye and swelling of the eyelid. If left untreated, chlamydia conjunctivitis can lead to conjunctival or corneal scars and even blindness.
Infection with the pathogen is the most common cause of blindness in newborns worldwide. In addition, about one third of infected newborns develop pneumonia after 4 to 12 weeks. Often the children have had conjunctivitis before.
This can manifest itself by a seizure-like cough and loud breathing sounds. Additional symptoms may include inflammation of the middle ear and mouth and throat. In babies, however, it is possible that pneumonia only manifests itself through increased tiredness and unwillingness to drink.
Premature babies may also experience breathing pauses, which in rare cases can be life-threatening. In addition, about one third of infected newborns develop pneumonia after 4 to 12 weeks. Often the children have had conjunctivitis before.
This can manifest itself by a seizure-like cough and loud breathing sounds. Additional symptoms may include inflammation of the middle ear and mouth and throat. In babies, however, it is possible that pneumonia only manifests itself through increased tiredness and unwillingness to drink. Premature babies may also experience breathing pauses, which in rare cases can be life-threatening.
What effect does an untreated infection have on the course of pregnancy?
An untreated Chlamydia infection can be associated with premature rupture of the bladder, premature birth and reduced birth weight. In addition, chlamydia infections promote bacterial vaginosis (incorrect colonization of the vagina with other pathogenic bacteria), which in turn increases the risk of premature birth. Furthermore, when the bacteria rise from the vagina, an inflammation of the egg membrane and the amniotic cavity can occur. In rare cases, a Chlamydia infection can also cause miscarriages.
