Q fever occurring during pregnancy may be associated with complications for mother, fetus and healthcare workers.
One mechanism for adverse effects is placentitis.
Effects on the fetus:
(1) abortion or stillbirth
(2) oligohydramnios
(3) premature delivery
(4) intrauterine growth retardation
Effects on the mother:
(1) endocarditis
(2) vascular disease
(3) chronic Q fever
Q fever during pregnancy can result in infections for obstetricians and delivery suite staff. This could be an issue in home births where precautions may not be taken as rigorously.
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