health

A number of infectious diseases may also affect the developing embryo
and fetus. Some of the diseases may not affect the mother but can be
passed on to the unborn fetus. Infections that can have major effects on
the fetus include the following:

• Cytomegalovirus (CMV). This common virus may pass from
  mother to fetus and usually causes few symptoms in the mother.
  However, the developing fetus may develop microcephaly or an
  abnormally small brain and head size and have a number of central
  nervous system (CNS) problems.
• Syphilis. This sexually transmitted bacterial disease can be passed
  to the fetus. The risk is 60 to 80 percent if the mother is infected
  and does not receive treatment that the bacteria will affect the CNS,
  causing meningitis or hydrocephalus*.
  
• Rubella (German measles). An expectant mother who has not been
  vaccinated for rubella may pass the virus to the developing fetus, in
  which the brain and CNS are affected. The child may have cerebral
  palsy or mental retardation, among other problems. Rubella can
  cause deafness, blindness, and heart defects in the newborn.
  
• Toxoplasmosis. This infection is caused by a parasite found in
  undercooked meat and in cat stools. While there are no symptoms
  in the mother, the fetus is affected. The child may develop learning
  disabilities, movement problems, and vision loss. Pregnant women
  should avoid changing cat litter boxes.