12.1.7.1
Malaria in Pregnancy
Malawi Standard Treatment Guidelines, 6th Edition, 2023. Chapter 12, Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Clinical Description
Similar presentation as in non-pregnant woman, however prone to complications:
- Hypoglycemia, anaemia, miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, low birth weight, preterm delivery
Signs and Symptoms
- Fever, malaise, general body pains, low appetite, headache, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, symptoms of anaemia. Splenomegaly.
Investigations
- FBC / Check hemoglobin
- Check MPs and MRDT
- Check random blood glucose
- Urinalysis / urine dipsticks
Pharmacological
- In 1st trimester of pregnancy give oral Quinine 10mg/kg body weight, administered 8 hourly for 7 days OR
- In 2ndand 3rdtrimester giveLumefantrine Artemether (LA) 12 hourly for 3 days.
Note: Pregnant women are susceptible to hypoglycemia when taking quinine.
Severe Malaria in Pregnancy
Hypoglycaedmia, reduced level of consciousness, anaemia, reduced urine output / cocacola coloured urine, convulsions
Refer to the MOH National Malaria Control Program Revised Guidelines for the Treatment of Malaria in Malawi, 5th edition, 2020, for full details of malaria management.
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