Mosquito Bite in Pregnancy

Introduction

Pregnancy is a journey in which many physiological changes influence women to be more vulnerable to health risks. Various vector-borne diseases pose a unique risk to pregnant women and the unborn children. The mosquito bite during pregnancy causes various health concerns. When these mosquitoes bite, they transfer the pathogens into the bloodstream of the pregnant women leading to diseases such as malaria, Zika virus, and dengue. These cause immediate discomfort to the mother and fetal health.

The introduction explores the relationship between mosquito bites and pregnancy. The significance of the article highlights potential risks faced by the expectant mothers. The article also talks about safeguarding maternal health such as nets and repellants. Healthcare strategies need to be improved to ensure the well-being of the mother and their developing fetus.

What Are the Causes of Mosquito Bites During Pregnancy?

Mosquito bites during pregnancy can occur due to several factors. The causes of mosquito bites during pregnancy are as follows:

• Hormonal Changes: It affects the heat production in the body of pregnant women. These changes can make pregnant women more attractive to mosquitoes.

• Increased Body Heat: The body temperature of pregnant women is high leading to the attraction of mosquitoes.

• Altered Breathing Patterns: The carbon dioxide is produced more during pregnancy leading to a change in the breathing pattern. The mosquitoes are attracted due to the presence of carbon dioxide.

• Dilated Blood Vessels: There is more amount of blood flow on the superficial surface of the skin leading to the attraction of mosquitoes who are seeking a blood meal.

• Increased Sweating: Pregnant women have an increased amount of sweat as compared to normal women. The mosquitoes are attracted to the compounds present in the sweat.

• Physiological Changes: Physical changes during pregnancy such as alterations in the shape of the body and weight gain can lead to exposure of skin surface, which makes more opportunities for mosquitoes to bite.

• Environmental Factors: Mosquitoes usually live in stagnant water. The areas where standing water such as ponds, poorly maintained drainage systems, and puddles are more prone to mosquitoes. Pregnant women traveling to areas or living near stagnant water places are more prone to mosquito bites.

• Travel to Endemic Areas: Pregnant women who are traveling to mosquito-borne disease areas are more prone to mosquito bites.

• Lack of Preventive Measures: Pregnant women who do not follow preventive measures such as beds with mosquito nets, and repellants are more vulnerable to mosquito-borne infections.

What Are the Symptoms of Mosquito Bites During Pregnancy?

The symptoms of mosquito bites are the same for pregnant and non-pregnant women. However, pregnant women are more sensitive to symptoms development due to decreased immunity. The symptoms of mosquito bites during pregnancy are as follows:

• Pregnant women may experience itching due to increased skin sensitivity.

• The affected area of the skin can become red or swollen.

• If the mosquito bites multiple times, the pregnant woman may experience pain or discomfort.

• Some pregnant women may develop a mild rash around the site of a mosquito bite.

• The affected area of the skin can feel warm to the touch due to an increase in an inflammatory response.

• Usually, the individuals scratch on the site of a mosquito bite which can break the skin. The threat of secondary infection in pregnant women is increased.

What Is the Treatment of Mosquito Bites During Pregnancy?

The main focus during the treatment of mosquito bites during pregnancy is on reducing the risk of complications such as infection. The treatment steps to manage mosquito bites during pregnancy are as follows:

• Clean the Bite Area: The healthcare professionals will wash the affected area with sterile water. This helps in minimizing the risk of infection. Then the area should be kept dry with a clean towel.

• Cold Compress: Place a cube of ice in a cloth and apply it over the affected skin. This helps in decreasing the swelling and itching. Do not keep ice directly on the skin because it can lead to frostbite.

• Topical Creams: Healthcare professionals will advise over-the-counter creams such as anti-itch creams or lotions that contain ingredients, such as hydrocortisone. This will prevent itching and inflammation.

• Oral Antihistamines: The clinician may recommend an oral antihistamine drug if the itching is severe. These drugs are safe during pregnancy.

• Avoid Scratching: The doctor may advise the individual to avoid scratching because it will increase the risk of infection.

• Natural Remedies: Aloe vera gel can be prescribed to pregnant women as a natural remedy.

What Are the Complications of Mosquito Bites During Pregnancy?

Mosquito bites during pregnancy may transmit the pathogens into the body. The complications of mosquito bites during pregnancy are as follows:

• Malaria: Malaria that occurs in pregnant women causes anemia leading to weakness and fatigue. The premature birth and low-body weight birth of babies will be increased.

• Zika Virus: Zika virus infection during pregnancy results in several birth defects such as a smaller head (microcephaly) and central nervous system abnormalities. It also elevates the chances of stillbirth and miscarriages.

• Dengue Fever: Dengue fever can be mild or severe. In the case of severe dengue fever, the infection can be life-threatening to both the mother and the fetus. It also leads to the premature birth of the baby.

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites During Pregnancy?

The preventive measures should be adopted by the expectant mothers to minimize the risk of life-threatening infections. The preventive measures are as follows:

• Pregnant women should apply mosquito repellant. These repellants should consist of oil of lemon eucalyptus and picaridin.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts, socks, long pants, and close-toe shoes when going outdoors. This will reduce the exposed skin.

• Pregnant women should stay indoors and use mosquito nets if living in mosquito-prone areas.

• The windows and doors should have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering the home.

• While sleeping, use a mosquito net.

• Regularly empty, cover, and treat containers that collect water such as bird baths and flower pots.

• Avoid strong-scented perfumes, lotions, and fragranced soaps.

• Stay in air-conditioned rooms.

• Take a consultation with a healthcare professional before traveling to a mosquito-prone area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, safeguarding from mosquito bites during pregnancy is of great importance to protect the health of the expectant mother and developing children. Mosquito bites in pregnancy can cause various health risks such as malaria and dengue. If the pregnant woman is planning to travel to mosquito-prone areas, consult the healthcare provider for further guidance.