 Placental malaria caused by plasmogeum falciparum is a major health issue during pregnancy in endemic areas, resulting in up to 1 million low birth weight babies annually. Efforts have been made to prevent it, and first phase eye clinical trials of vaccines are underway, although trials testing efficacy are more complex due to the need for exposure to parasites during pregnancy and extensive follow-up. Future second generation vaccines may overcome these challenges. This article was authored by Caroline Pessin, Ali Salanti, Thor Geetheander, and others.