of the pregnant women, and birthweight in their infants. If the mother has active herpes simplex (as may be suggested by a pap test), delivery by Caesarean section can prevent the newborn from contact, and consequent infection, with this virus. IgG2 antibody may play a crucial role in prevention of intrauterine infections and extensive research is going on for developing IgG2-based therapies for treatment and vaccination. Prognosis Each type of vertically transmitted infection has a different prognosis. The stage of the pregnancy at the time of infection also can change the effect on the newborn. See also Group B streptococcal infection Susceptibility and severity of infections in pregnancy Horizontal disease transmission References External links Infections specific to the perinatal period Obstetrics Neonatology Disease transmission