Researchers at Adelaide's Women's & Children's Hospital and the University of Adelaide, Australia, have linked viral infection with serious pregnancy complications and pre-term birth. Reporting their findings in the British Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, the researchers say their work demonstrates that exposure to viral infection - especially viruses of the herpes group - may be associated with pregnancy-induced hypertensive disease (pre-eclampsia) and also with pre-term birth.
"This is an exciting finding and further studies are now required to look at the link between viral exposure in pregnancy and genetic susceptibility to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as high blood pressure, premature delivery and cerebral palsy," says Alastair MacLennan, leader of the research group.
Pregnancy hypertension occurs in up to 10 percent of first pregnancies throughout the developed world. When untreated, it can lead to uncontrolled epileptic fits of eclampsia with loss of baby and mother. It is a common cause of maternal death in Third World countries.
The cause of high blood pressure in pregnancy has been an enigma for decades. "We are just beginning to understand the interaction and importance of exposure to viruses and genetic susceptibility to infection both in pregnancy and the newborn," concluded co-researcher Paul Goldwater.
Related:
Vitamin Use Reduces Pre-eclampsia Risk
Speculation Over Mystery Hormone Behind Pre-eclampsia
Source: University of Adelaide
