Have you ever known syphilis? In general, syphilis occurs because it is usually experienced by adults. However, you need to be wary of syphilis which can attack babies. Therefore, it is very important for you as a parent to have an understanding of early detection of syphilis in babies along with solutions for dealing with it and the need for quick action. It turns out that the role of parents is very important in preventing syphilis in babies. Through this article, you can find out the factors that cause syphilis in babies and medical treatment suggestions.
The process of occurrence of syphilis in babies
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. This disease can be transmitted from an infected pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
The process of syphilis in babies can be explained as follows:
- Transmission from mother to fetus: Syphilis bacteria can spread from an infected pregnant mother through the bloodstream to the fetus in the womb or through the placenta.
- Transmission during childbirth: If a pregnant woman is infected with syphilis and is not treated, the baby can become infected during delivery.
- Transmission from breast milk: If a mother is breastfeeding her baby and has open wounds or abrasions on the breast, bacteria can enter the milk fluid.
It is important to detect syphilis in pregnant women early and provide appropriate treatment to prevent transmission to the baby. Monitoring the health of babies born to mothers with syphilis is also important for early detection and managing possible symptoms with appropriate treatment can help prevent serious complications due to syphilis in babies.
Prevention of Syphilis in Babies
In fact, preventing syphilis in babies really depends on prevention and early treatment in pregnant women. Therefore, it is important to undergo regular pregnancy check-ups and adhere to doctor's recommendations to ensure the health of mother and baby.
Here are some preventative steps you can take:
- Examination and treatment of pregnant women: It is important to be screened for syphilis during pregnancy and if a pregnant woman is found to be positive for syphilis, antibiotic treatment must be given immediately to prevent transmission of the infection to the baby.
- Treatment of sexual partners: Sexual partners of women infected with syphilis should also be examined and treated if necessary. This is important to prevent re-infection between partners.
- Routine examination of pregnant women with risk factors: Pregnant women with high risk factors, such as a previous history of syphilis, drug use, or living in an area with high infection rates will need regular syphilis screening.
- Baby health monitoring: Babies born to mothers with syphilis need to be monitored closely. Health examinations and follow-up need to be carried out to detect early symptoms or signs of syphilis in babies.
Handling and Treatment of Syphilis in Babies
Immediate treatment after diagnosis is essential to prevent serious complications that can occur in babies infected with syphilis.
Recognize and understand general guidelines for handling and treating syphilis in babies:
- Dosage and duration of treatment: The dose and duration of antibiotic treatment will be determined by the doctor based on the severity of the infection and the age of the baby. It is important to follow the treatment schedule and complete the entire course of prescribed antibiotics, even if symptoms have begun to subside.
- Evaluation for complications: Babies infected with syphilis should be evaluated for possible complications such as tooth decay, hearing loss, and internal organ damage.
- Development and growth monitoring: Babies infected with syphilis also need to have their development and growth monitored carefully to ensure that they grow and develop well.
- Providing psychosocial support: Families of babies infected with syphilis may need psychosocial support. Counseling and emotional support can help them deal with stress and worries regarding the baby's health condition.
It is important to note that handling and treatment of syphilis in babies must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor and an experienced medical team. Immediately consult and contact the doctor of your choice if you have any concerns regarding the baby's health or if any symptoms appear after birth.
Article written and reviewed by Dr. Dumaria Situmorang, Sp.OG (Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology at EMC Cibitung Hospital) and Dr. Candra Segeren, Sp.A, M.Kes (Children's Specialist at EMC Cibitung Hospital).