CMV During Your Pregnancy: What Does It Mean

While pregnancy is a new experience in every woman’s life, sometimes, it can be a cause of concern, especially when it comes to your health and the health of your baby. Cytomegalovirus (CMV)—a virus that is not often discussed—is a serious concern during pregnancy. If not managed well, it can pose serious threats to both the mother and the baby.

Read this article to explore more about CMV, how it affects pregnancy, symptoms, risk factors, and more.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus in the herpesvirus family and affects about 60-80 percent of adults by the age of 40. And unfortunately, many people who contract CMV may never know they have it because it often causes no symptoms at all. CMV is spread through bodily fluids, including saliva, urine, blood, semen, and breast milk. The virus is most commonly passed from one person to another through direct contact. 

When a woman contracts CMV during pregnancy, especially for the first time, it can pose severe complications.

This is because when a pregnant woman is infected with CMV, the virus can be transmitted to her baby, which is known as congenital CMV. This potentially leads to birth defects, such as hearing loss, vision problems, and, in severe cases, developmental delays or brain damage. However, fortunately, the chances of transmission to the baby are relatively low. In fact, according to the American Pregnancy Association, less than 1 in 5 women with primary CMV infections will transmit the virus to their baby.

CMV typically doesn’t show any symptoms in many people. However, if a woman does show symptoms during pregnancy, the signs may include:

If you’re pregnant and notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your doctor immediately.

While CMV is a concern during pregnancy, there are several approaches you can take to minimize the risk.Here are the basic hygiene tips you must practice.

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for CMV, and treatment is usually limited. While there is no cure for CMV, treatments are available for women who have been diagnosed with the virus during pregnancy. In some cases, antiviral medications such as valganciclovir may be administered to reduce the risk of passing CMV to the baby, especially in women who experience primary infections.

While the chances of contracting CMV during pregnancy and passing it to your baby are low, it is important to take precautionary measures for ensuring you and your baby’s health. If you notice any of the symptoms, it is best to consult your healthcare provider for early diagnosis and management.