Chickenpox during Pregnancy

Chickenpox during Pregnancy

Chickenpox is caused by varicella zoster virus (VZV). This virus is very contagious, and it is spread through the air and the respiratory system. Infection can also occur from touching or breathing in virus particles that come from chickenpox blisters. Usually, a red, itchy rash develops that forms fluid-filled blisters, which later turn into scabs. Typically, the rash and blisters form 10–21 days after a person has been exposed to someone who has chickenpox.

In pregnant women, chickenpox can cause serious harm to the fetus and the mother. If the mother gets chickenpox in the second half of her pregnancy, the baby is not usually affected by the virus. The mother produces antibodies that cross the placenta into the baby. These antibodies protect the baby.

What are the causes?

This condition is caused by the spread of the virus:

  • When an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing tiny droplets into the air.
  • When a person comes in contact with the fluids that are produced by the chickenpox rash.

What are the signs or symptoms?

Symptoms of this condition include:

  • Flu-like symptoms, such as fever and tiredness. These symptoms develop first.
  • Red, itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters.
  • Blisters that turn into scabs.

How is this diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed based on:

  • A physical exam and your symptoms. The diagnosis is easily made when the rash and blisters appear.
  • You may also have tests done to confirm that you have the virus. Tests may include:
    • Blood testing to find the virus antigen in the blood.
    • Analyzing fluid from the blisters for the virus antigen.

How is this treated?

This condition is treated with:

  • Antiviral medicine. This medicine:
    • Is given by mouth, preferably within 24 hours of when a rash appears. It lessens the symptoms, the rash, and the formation of new blisters. This medicine does not harm the baby.
    • May be given through one of your veins if you develop pneumonia or encephalitis.
    • Does not necessarily prevent the baby from being affected by the virus.
    • Will be given to the newborn if he or she develops chickenpox within the first 2 weeks after delivery.
  • Varicella zoster immune globulin (VariZIG).
    • If you were exposed to chickenpox, you may be given this immunoglobulin within 10 days of your exposure to the virus.
    • If you developed chickenpox at any time during the 5 days before delivery or the 2 days after delivery, this immune globulin is given to your newborn.

Follow these instructions at home:

Managing itching, pain, and discomfort

  • Apply calamine lotion to soothe itching.
  • Take a bath in lukewarm water every few hours.
    • Add several tablespoons of baking soda or oatmeal to the water to make the bath more soothing.
    • Do not bathe in hot water.
  • If directed, put an ice pack or a cold washcloth (compress) on the rash to relieve itching. For an ice pack:
    • Put ice in a plastic bag.
    • Place a towel between your skin and the bag.
    • Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times a day, or as told by your health care provider.
  • Do not eat or drink spicy, salty, or acidic things if you have blisters in your mouth. Soft, bland, and cold foods and beverages will be easiest to swallow.

Preventing infection

  • Do not be around people who have not had chickenpox and have not been vaccinated against it.
  • Do not be around people who have a weakened immune system. This includes:
    • People who have HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), or cancer.
    • People who have had a transplant or are on chemotherapy.
    • People who take medicines that weaken the immune system.
  • Have any person who has been exposed to your chickenpox call a health care provider if he or she:
    • Has not had chickenpox before.
    • Has not been vaccinated against it.
    • Has a weakened immune system.
    • Is pregnant.
  • Wash your hands often. This lowers your chance of getting a bacterial skin infection and passing the virus to others.
  • Keep fingernails clean and trimmed to prevent skin infections when you scratch the blisters.

General instructions

  • Do not scratch the rash or pick at the scabs. Doing that can cause scarring and skin infections.
  • Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

  • You suspect that you have been in contact with someone who has chicken pox.
  • You develop signs of chicken pox, such as flu-like symptoms, with a red rash and blisters.

Get help right away if:

  • You develop uterine contractions.
  • You begin leaking fluid from the vagina.
  • You develop shortness of breath.
  • You have chickenpox and you develop a severe headache.
  • You have a fever and your symptoms suddenly get worse.
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