Pregnancy and Fertility: Examination of Rubella Immunity Levels
Protecting Against Rubella During Pregnancy
Rubella, also known as German measles or three-day measles, is a viral infection that can have severe consequences for a developing fetus. If a person gets rubella while pregnant, especially during the first trimester, it can lead to potentially severe congenital abnormalities for the baby, a condition known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS).
Because of these risks, vaccination against rubella should be completed before pregnancy to protect both mother and fetus. If a woman is not immune to rubella, the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is administered before pregnancy, with a recommended waiting period to conceive afterward (at least 4 weeks).
Live vaccines, like the MMR, are contraindicated during pregnancy. Pregnant individuals should not receive the MMR vaccine during pregnancy and should wait until after delivery for vaccination if they are not already immune.
Most people in the U.S. will not come into contact with rubella unless traveling to countries where the disease is still present. However, anyone planning a pregnancy should have an IgG serology test to determine whether they are immune to rubella. A positive IgG test indicates that a person is immune to rubella, either due to having had the disease or receiving the MMR vaccine. A negative IgG test result indicates that a vaccination is needed to prevent the person from contracting the virus during pregnancy.
The MMR vaccine is safe to receive while breastfeeding or chestfeeding. However, because the vaccine contains a live attenuated virus, a person should avoid conceiving for at least 4 weeks after receiving the MMR vaccine.
Common abnormalities caused by CRS include cataracts, deafness, damage to the liver and spleen, heart problems, skin rash at birth (blueberry muffin syndrome), low birth weight, and intellectual disabilities. Less commonly, a baby may develop brain damage, glaucoma, inflammation in the lungs, thyroid and other hormone problems.
The CDC recommends that individuals planning pregnancy should ensure they are vaccinated against rubella before becoming pregnant. Women of childbearing age should verify their rubella immunity and receive the MMR vaccine if needed prior to conception.
In conclusion, protecting against rubella during pregnancy is crucial to prevent the potential severe consequences on fetal development. Pregnant individuals should not receive the MMR vaccine, and anyone planning a pregnancy should have an IgG serology test to determine their rubella immunity status.
- Science has identified Rubella, or German measles, as a viral infection that can cause severe complications during pregnancy, leading to congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in the baby.
- Vaccination against rubella is essential to protect both mother and fetus before pregnancy, with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine being the recommended choice.
- However, live vaccines like the MMR should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks, and pregnant individuals should wait until after delivery for vaccination if not already immune.
- Paxlovid and other medicines that block the action of certain enzymes should not be taken during pregnancy due to the potential risks they pose to the developing fetus.
- Therapies and treatments for mental health, mens' health, and womens' health should be approached with caution during pregnancy as some may not be suitable for the developing baby.
- Skin care products should also be carefully chosen during pregnancy, as some ingredients could potentially harm the fetus or cause adverse reactions.
- Retargeting in health-and-wellness advertising can be beneficial for reaching people who have previously shown interest in immunizations and vaccines, but it must be done responsibly, considering the context of the individual's health status and life stage.
- Medicare plans often cover preventive care, including vaccines, screenings, and immunizations for seniors, playing a crucial role in maintaining their health and wellness.
