What does it mean if rubella virus is detected during pregnancy?

Rubella virus infection detected during pregnancy usually refers to the identification of rubella virus antibodies through blood testing. Rubella is a contagious disease caused by the rubella virus. While it generally causes mild symptoms in most adults, for pregnant women, especially those infected early in pregnancy, it can lead to congenital rubella syndrome in the fetus, affecting fetal development, including heart defects, hearing and vision problems.

The rubella virus is transmitted through respiratory secretions, and pregnant women may become infected through contact with droplets from infected individuals in daily life. Additionally, pregnant women might contract the virus through blood transmission, sharing personal hygiene items, or due to a weakened immune system. After a pregnant woman is infected with the rubella virus, the virus may cross the placental barrier and enter the fetal body, leading to various fetal complications, including but not limited to fetal malformations, miscarriage, preterm birth, congenital heart disease, and congenital cataracts. The risk is particularly higher if infection occurs within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

If rubella virus infection is detected before or early in pregnancy, doctors will assess the potential impact of the virus on the fetus and may recommend detailed ultrasound examinations and other related tests, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, to monitor fetal health. For pregnant women who have not previously been infected with rubella and have not received the vaccine, contact with known rubella patients should be avoided to reduce the risk of infection.