Understanding CMV During Pregnancy: Essential Insights and Precautions
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a widespread virus that can impact pregnancy and fetal health. Learn about CMV risks, symptoms, prevention, and what to expect if infected during pregnancy.
Welcoming a new baby brings excitement and preparation, but maintaining your health is crucial throughout pregnancy.
One important aspect is preventing infections like cytomegalovirus (CMV), which can pose risks to your developing baby.
This guide explores what CMV is, why it matters during pregnancy, symptoms to watch for, and steps you can take to protect yourself and your child.
What Is Cytomegalovirus (CMV)?
CMV is a common virus belonging to the herpesvirus family. It's estimated that by age 5, about one-third of children have been infected, and over half of adults carry the virus by age 40.
After initial infection, CMV remains dormant in the body for life, often without causing symptoms.
Many people with CMV are unaware of their infection because it frequently presents no noticeable signs.
There are three main types of CMV infections:
- Acute CMV: Causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and body aches.
- CMV in Immunocompromised Individuals: Can lead to serious complications affecting the eyes, brain, and digestive system.
- Congenital CMV: Occurs when a baby contracts CMV in the womb, potentially resulting in long-term health issues.
Why Is CMV Risky During Pregnancy?
CMV is highly prevalent, and nearly half of pregnant individuals have been exposed prior to pregnancy. However, 1-4% may acquire CMV during pregnancy, which increases the chance of passing it to the baby through the placenta.
Transmission risk is highest if the infection occurs for the first time during pregnancy but can also happen with reactivation or reinfection.
Congenital CMV affects about 1 in 200 newborns and can cause complications such as low birth weight, jaundice, microcephaly, seizures, hearing or vision loss, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays.
Recognizing CMV Symptoms
Most infected individuals show no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they often resemble mild flu-like signs including fever, fatigue, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes.
How Is CMV Transmitted?
CMV spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, urine, saliva, semen, vaginal secretions, tears, and breast milk.
Common transmission routes include kissing, sexual contact, handling diapers, sharing utensils, and from mother to child during pregnancy and childbirth.
Diagnosis and Testing
Blood tests can detect CMV antibodies, but routine screening during pregnancy is uncommon due to limited predictive value and treatment options.
If exposure or symptoms suggest CMV infection, further testing including amniocentesis and ultrasounds may be recommended to assess fetal health.
Treatment Options
There is no cure for CMV, and treatment during pregnancy is limited. Antiviral medications like valaciclovir show promise but are not yet widely approved for preventing transmission.
Newborns diagnosed with congenital CMV may receive antiviral therapy to reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Questions to Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider
- What is my risk of passing CMV to my baby?
- Should I be tested for CMV during pregnancy?
- How can I reduce my exposure to CMV while pregnant?
- What symptoms should prompt medical attention?
- What are the signs of congenital CMV in newborns?
- How is congenital CMV managed after birth?
Preventing CMV Infection
To lower your risk, practice diligent handwashing after contact with young children, avoid sharing food or utensils, and minimize exposure to saliva and tears.
Using barrier protection during sex can also reduce CMV transmission.
Prognosis and Outlook
Transmission risk varies depending on timing and type of infection, with earlier pregnancy infections posing greater risks.
While most infants born with congenital CMV do not experience severe issues, about 10% have health concerns at birth, and prompt treatment improves outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CMV do to the body?
CMV can remain dormant in the body and reactivate later, temporarily releasing viral particles that can be transmitted to others.
What are the long-term effects of CMV?
While adults typically experience no lasting issues unless immunocompromised, congenital CMV can cause hearing loss, vision impairment, and developmental disabilities in infants.
Is CMV a sexually transmitted infection?
Yes, CMV can be transmitted sexually but also spreads through other forms of close contact.
Is CMV related to COVID-19?
No, CMV and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses from separate families with distinct genetic material and transmission methods.
Final Thoughts
CMV is a widespread virus that can affect pregnancy and newborn health. Awareness, prevention, and early consultation with healthcare providers are key to managing risks associated with CMV.
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