TORCH Infection Screening When Planning Pregnancy

Hello! In this article, we will discuss how to properly interpret the test results for antibodies to TORCH infections when planning pregnancy. Screening for these infections is crucial when preparing for conception, as they can be harmful to the fetus and affect the pregnancy.

What are TORCH Infections?

TORCH infections are a group of infectious diseases that can have serious effects on the health of the pregnant woman and her future child. These include:

• T — Toxoplasmosis
• O — Other infections (such as syphilis, chickenpox)
• R — Rubella
• C — Cytomegalovirus
• H — Herpes

Why Get Tested for TORCH Infections?

TORCH infection screening is essential to eliminate the risk of infection during pregnancy, which can lead to serious complications, such as birth defects or miscarriage.

How to Interpret the Test Results?

Correct interpretation of TORCH infection test results helps determine whether you have been previously infected and whether you have immunity. It's important to remember that the result depends on the presence of antibodies in your body.

1. Negative Result for Immunoglobulin G and M

If you have no antibodies of class G and M, it means you have not encountered the infection before and do not have immunity. In this case, vaccination or preventive measures (such as avoiding contact with infected individuals) are recommended.

2. Positive Immunoglobulin G and Negative Immunoglobulin M

This result indicates that you have already had the infection and developed immunity. This means that the infection is not dangerous during pregnancy since your body is already prepared to fight it.

3. Positive Immunoglobulin M and Negative Immunoglobulin G

If the test shows antibodies of class M, it indicates that you have recently been exposed to the infection and are in an acute stage. In this case, you should consult an infectious disease specialist for further recommendations and treatment.

4. Positive Immunoglobulin M and G

When both Immunoglobulin M and G are positive, it may indicate an active infection. In such cases, it is necessary to consult an infectious disease specialist, and a follow-up test may be required in a few weeks to make a final assessment.

What to Do After Receiving the Results?

Do not panic upon receiving the test results, even if they seem alarming. The most important thing is to interpret them correctly and not rush into treatment. Depending on the results, your doctor will suggest appropriate measures, such as vaccination or further testing.

Why Get Tested When Planning Pregnancy?

Screening for TORCH infections is vital during pregnancy planning to reduce the risk of infection during pregnancy. This will help you avoid complications and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Conclusion

Pregnancy planning is a responsible step, and screening for TORCH infections is a crucial part of the preparation. Regular testing, proper interpretation of results, and timely consultation with a specialist will help you avoid risks and ensure the health of both the mother and the child.

I hope this information has been helpful to you. Thank you for your attention!