Understanding Rubella in Pregnancy: Risks, Effects, and Prevention
Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation, but it also comes with vulnerabilities—especially when it comes to infections like rubella, commonly known as German measles. While rubella is often a mild illness in children and adults, it can have devastating consequences if contracted during pregnancy. Understanding the risks, recognizing symptoms, and knowing how to prevent it is crucial for expectant mothers and their babies.
What is Rubella?
Rubella is a contagious viral infection caused by the rubella virus. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The illness typically presents with mild symptoms such as low-grade fever, sore throat, rash, and swollen lymph nodes behind the ears. However, in some cases, people may show no symptoms at all—making it particularly dangerous during pregnancy.
Why is Rubella Dangerous During Pregnancy?
The greatest threat of rubella occurs when a pregnant woman is infected during the first trimester. The virus can pass from the mother to the developing fetus through the placenta, leading to a condition known as Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS).
Babies born with CRS may suffer from a range of severe and lifelong complications, including:
- Vision and hearing impairments, including cataracts or deafness
- Heart defects, such as patent ductus arteriosus or pulmonary artery stenosis
- Neurological problems, like intellectual disabilities or developmental delays
- Growth retardation and low birth weight
- In severe cases, miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery
The risk is highest during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, with up to a 90% chance of fetal damage if the mother is infected early on.
How Can Rubella Be Prevented?
The good news is that rubella is preventable—thanks to one of the most effective tools in modern medicine: vaccination.
The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) offers strong protection against the rubella virus. Most people receive this vaccine during childhood, typically in two doses: the first at 12–15 months and a second before starting school.
For women planning pregnancy, it’s essential to confirm their immunity status:
- Pre-pregnancy screening through a simple blood test can determine whether you are immune to rubella.
- If you are not immune, it is strongly recommended to get vaccinated before conceiving.
- Since the MMR vaccine contains a live, weakened virus, it should not be given during pregnancy. Women advised to get vaccinated should wait at least one month before trying to conceive.
What If You’re Already Pregnant and Not Immune?
If you discover during pregnancy that you’re not immune to rubella, you cannot be vaccinated until after giving birth. However, you can take precautions:
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has measles or a rash illness.
- Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing.
- Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you’re exposed to rubella. In some cases, they may recommend immunoglobulin treatment, although it doesn’t guarantee fetal protection.
After delivery, women who are not immune should receive the MMR vaccine before leaving the hospital or during the postpartum visit to protect future pregnancies.
The Bigger Picture: Eliminating Rubella
Many countries, including Indonesia, are part of global efforts to eliminate rubella and prevent congenital rubella syndrome. Mass immunization campaigns and routine childhood vaccinations are key to achieving this goal. Protecting yourself not only safeguards your pregnancy but also contributes to community-wide immunity.
Final Thoughts
Rubella may seem like a forgotten illness in the age of vaccines, but it remains a serious threat to unborn babies. Awareness, vaccination, and timely medical care are the best defenses. If you're planning a pregnancy—or already expecting—talk to your doctor about your immunity status. A simple blood test and a vaccine, when appropriate, can make all the difference between a healthy baby and a lifetime of challenges.
Protect yourself. Protect your baby. Prevent rubella.
This article is intended for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
