Bipolar disorder in babies linked to mother’s flu infection during pregnancy

Image Source: sciencedaily.com

The first trimester of pregnancy is a risky time to incur any illness, including influenza. If a woman at this stage of her pregnancy is exposed to the disease, complications can set in easily. To add fuel to the flame, the unborn child exposed to the flu virus is in danger of developing bipolar disorder later in life. This finding is according to a small study headed by Dr. Alan Brown, a professor of psychiatry and epidemiology at Columbia University in New York.

Dr. Brown says that the result of one small study may not be enough proof that a flu-stricken pregnant woman can have a child with mental disorder, but still, flu should be prevented.

Image Source: examiner.com

The Centers for Disease Control Prevention affirms that flu is more likely to cause severe complications in a pregnant woman than in a woman who’s not pregnant. A flu shot is a pregnant woman’s best protection against serious complications of flu. Apart from getting a flu shot, a pregnant woman should also practice good health habits.

Doctors also encourage women to look for credible resources that will help them learn protective measures to stop the spread of the disease to others and to their unborn child.

Image Source: en.medixa.org

Dr. Cristian Andronic is an expert in high-risk pregnancies. Access this Facebook page to know more about his practice.