Malaria during pregnancy can pose serious risks not only to the mother but also to the unborn child, increasing the chances of complications such as anaemia, low birth weight, stillbirth, and in severe cases, maternal and fetal death. Despite being preventable and treatable, experts warn that lack of awareness and persistent myths often delay timely diagnosis and treatment, putting both lives at risk.
The scale of the problem remains significant. According to the latest World Malaria Report, there were an estimated 28.2 crore malaria cases globally in 2024, marking an increase of about 90 lakh cases (3%) compared to 2023. The death toll also rose to around 6.1 lakh in 2024, up from 5.98 lakh the previous year, highlighting the continuing global burden of the disease.
As highlighted in a study, “One hundred twenty-five million pregnant women are at risk for contracting malaria, a preventable cause of maternal and infant morbidity and death.” The study further notes that “malaria parasites contribute to adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes due to their preferential accumulation in placental intervillous spaces,” making timely diagnosis and intervention critical.
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Researchers also emphasise that “pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to malaria infections, and malaria infections during pregnancy put their fetuses at risk,” linking the condition to complications such as anaemia, stillbirth, low birth weight, and even maternal and fetal death. Despite these risks, gaps in awareness and persistent myths continue to delay prevention and treatment efforts.
On this World Malaria Day, we spoke to Dr Meghana Reddy Jetty, Senior Consultant in Obstetrics, Gynecology, Laparoscopy and Aesthetic Gynecology at Aster Whitefield Hospital, who highlights five commonly misunderstood aspects of malaria in pregnancy, aiming to encourage informed healthcare decisions.
Myth 1: Malaria is the same in pregnant and non-pregnant women.
Fact: Pregnant women experience reduced immune function, which increases their risk of developing severe malaria, particularly due to Plasmodium falciparum infections. The parasite can accumulate in the placenta, impairing the transfer of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. This condition increases the risk of maternal anaemia, miscarriage, stillbirth, and low birth weight.
Myth 2: Mild fever in pregnancy can be ignored.
Fact: Even a low-grade fever in pregnancy should not be dismissed in malaria-endemic regions. Early symptoms, such as fever, chills, headache, and body aches, can quickly progress to complications such as severe anaemia or cerebral malaria. Prompt testing through blood smears or rapid diagnostic tests is essential for early detection
Myth 3: Malaria treatment is unsafe during pregnancy.
Fact: Proper antimalarial treatment should be administered, as it is both safe and essential. The risks of delaying treatment far outweigh the potential risks posed by the medications. The choice of medication should be based on the patient’s trimester, with specific treatment protocols designed to ensure fetal safety while effectively clearing the infection. Outcomes can worsen if patients self-medicate or do not complete their full course of treatment.
Myth 4: Malaria only affects the mother, not the baby.
Fact: Malaria directly harms fetal health. Placental infection can restrict fetal growth, leading to intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth. In its most severe form, the condition can cause fetal death. Maternal anaemia resulting from malaria infection decreases the oxygen supply to the fetus, increasing developmental risks.
Myth 5: Prevention is optional if you are indoors.
Fact: Prevention is critical and must be proactive. Pregnant women should use insecticide-treated bed nets, wear protective clothing, and eliminate stagnant water around their living spaces. In high-risk areas, preventive antimalarial therapy may be recommended as part of antenatal care protocols.
How can pregnant women protect themselves from malaria?
The management process depends on two essential elements: early diagnosis and timely medical treatment. Screening tests should be performed during regular antenatal check-ups in areas where the disease is prevalent. The three key components of care include treating anaemia through iron supplements, maintaining proper hydration, and monitoring fetal growth.
Malaria during pregnancy can be prevented and treated when people are aware of the disease and seek medical help without delay. The focus should remain on three main areas: early detection, effective and safe treatment, and ongoing prevention strategies to safeguard both mothers and their children.
This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS