Testing for infectious diseases early in pregnancy is key [Infographic]

(BPT) - Several infectious diseases can be passed on from a pregnant woman to her baby, increasing the risk of miscarriage, birth defects and developmental problems. These infections - collectively known as TORCH - include toxoplasmosis, other (e.g., syphilis, HIV), rubella (measles), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex virus. The best way for a woman to protect her unborn or newborn child from infectious diseases is to protect herself by getting tested early in her pregnancy, or even before becoming pregnant.