LymeNet Flash: When do you think they'll start testing all pregnant women for Lyme?

This is topic When do you think they'll start testing all pregnant women for Lyme? in forum Medical Questions at LymeNet Flash.

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Posted by Janice70 (Member # 16319) on :

People used to have to get syphilis tests before they got married. Pregnant women are still routinely given syphilis tests.

Just wondering what century this will happen with Lyme.

Posted by Pinelady (Member # 18524) on :

Good Question.

Posted by 22dreams (Member # 17846) on :

First, a test that actually positively identifies the presence of the bacteria in all its strains would have to be developed.
Not just antibody tests. and given the behavior of the spirochete, it would make it all the more difficult.

I couldn't even venture a guess since research is barely being done on lyme. That could miraculously change though.

Posted by seekhelp (Member # 15067) on :

Never in this century. [Frown]

Posted by losferwrds (Member # 19741) on :

The redcross doesn't even bother to screen for it, I heard something about a pilot program in a really endemic area, but with the current testing techniques it would prolly be worthless in whole blood antibody testing. Its a joke an antibody test for an infection that suppresses your immune system is the gold standard...

Posted by Peedie (Member # 15355) on :

Janice70 I brought this up about a month ago. I really wish the testing was OFFERED, not required. But what is most important is that information regarding Lyme gets into the hands of newly weds - before they start the family.

Links to ILADS and LIA would be useful. A simple single page handout at the Gynocologist office would be so great.

I don't think it is unrealistic to hope for that. Probably depends greatly on how things turn out with the treatment guidelines, CDC and the Conn. Gen. ongoing legal suit.

Until Lyme disease treatment guidelines (IDSA) reflect the true nature of this disease and recognize proper (LLMD) treatment - nothing moves forward from here. IMO

-p

Posted by Janice70 (Member # 16319) on :

I wish I had known about Lyme before getting pregnant. Not that I would have necessarily taken antibiotics during pregnancy, but

before getting pregnant I would have made sure I had the infection down as low as it possibly could be.