In pregnant women infected with P. falciparum, which is a possible effect?

• A. Low birth weight
• B. Increased birth weight
• C. Placental abruption
• D. Fetal hydrops

Answer: (A)

In malaria during pregnancy, P. falciparum often sequesters in the placenta, causing placental malaria. This placental involvement triggers inflammation and disrupts the transfer of nutrients and oxygen from mother to fetus. The result is impaired fetal growth, so the baby is commonly born with a low birth weight.

That’s why low birth weight is the most likely effect. Increased birth weight isn’t typical, and placental abruption or fetal hydrops aren’t the characteristic outcomes of placental malaria, though severe cases can have other complications. The key idea is placental dysfunction leading to fetal growth restriction and reduced birth weight.