The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a document in which recommends ultrasound between weeks 18 and 20 of gestation to all pregnant women residing in areas affected by Zika virus to rule out brain abnormalities in the fetus, especially microcephaly.
According to the document, "it is recommended that ultrasound be performed on pregnant women living in areas where there is Zika virus transmission to detect and treat or rule out brain abnormalities in the fetus, especially microcephaly."
If microcephaly or brain abnormalities have not been observed on ultrasound, regular prenatal care should continue to be given to women who have had clinical symptoms and who have tested negative for Zika virus.
After that, WHO also advises "to perform a second fetal ultrasound at the end of the second trimester or at the beginning of the third (preferably between weeks 28 and 30) to detect a possible microcephaly or other brain abnormalities since at that time they are much easier to identify. "
AdvertisingThe recommendations further suggest that, if possible, it should be considered the possibility of performing an amniocentesis when the pregnant woman has tested negative for the virus but brain abnormalities have been observed in the fetus on ultrasound to detect genetic abnormalities and congenital infections, including Zika virus infection.
Knowing the situation of the unborn baby can lead many women to consider the abortion contemplated in the legislation of some countries. In this regard, WHO says, "as regards the termination of pregnancy, women who decide to opt for this route should be given precise information about the options provided for in the legislation, including harm reduction when assistance cannot be provided. necessary All women deserve dignified and respectful treatment, regardless of their decisions regarding their pregnancy. "
