Congenital syphilis is a serious condition that can occur when a child is infected with syphilis in the mother’s womb during pregnancy or at birth, leading to deformities and delayed physical or mental development. Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Tho, Deputy Head of Clinical Department 3 at Ho Chi Minh City Dermatology Hospital, explains that the risk of vertical transmission of syphilis to children is higher when the mother has the disease in the early stage of pregnancy. Spirochetes multiply rapidly during this period, reaching high concentrations in the blood and potentially causing miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth.
If left untreated, congenital syphilis can have devastating effects on a child’s development. The disease can affect the development of various organs in the fetus, resulting in birth defects like heart disease, blindness, deafness, intellectual disabilities, malnutrition, or infections such as pneumonia and brain and bone infections. Children who are infected with syphilis after birth may experience delayed physical and mental development, facing difficulties in learning due to vision, hearing, or intelligence-related issues. Brain damage caused by syphilis can lead to behavioral abnormalities in children.
It is crucial for pregnant women to undergo syphilis testing during pregnancy to prevent the transmission of the disease from mother to child through the placenta or during childbirth. Early detection allows for timely treatment and prevention of dangerous complications for both the mother and baby. If detected before pregnancy or diagnosed during pregnancy, effective treatment should be administered to prevent transmission to the fetus. It is recommended that breastfeeding be safe after receiving proper and sufficient treatment for syphilis. Regular check-ups for the child are essential to monitor their health and detect early signs of congenital syphilis.
To prevent syphilis from spreading throughout life it is important to avoid sharing needles or other injection equipment and use condoms consistently during sex. Limiting sexual partners also reduces the risk of getting infected with other sexually transmitted diseases.
In conclusion congenital syphilis if left untreated can lead to severe health issues for both mother and baby therefore it is crucial for pregnant women to get tested for this condition before it becomes a problem.
