Rubella, previously known as German measles, is a relatively mild disease in adults and children that can cause significant health problems in a newborn. If you are planning to become pregnant and do not have antibodies in your blood indicating that you are immune to rubella, get a rubella vaccine at least three months before becoming pregnant, advises the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
About Rubella
Rubella is an acute viral illness that causes very nonspecific symptoms and can often be so mild that you may not know you have been infected. Typical symptoms, if present, start to show 12 to 23 days after exposure. They include a low-grade fever, malaise, headache, swollen lymph nodes, joint pain and swelling, red eyes and a runny nose. These symptoms show up one to five days before a rash develops. The rash only lasts a few days and appears on your face first then spreads to other parts of your body. You are contagious one week before the rash appears and for one week after. you likely received a rubella vaccine as a child, included with the standard MMR vaccine. However, this vaccine does not guarantee immunity as an adult.
Rubella and Pregnancy
Have a blood test prior to becoming pregnant or in your first trimester to check for rubella antibodies so your doctor can be informed and take appropriate action. If you come down with rubella during pregnancy, you could have a miscarriage, or your baby could be born with multiple birth defects and developmental problems. If you get rubella in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, the risks for your baby may include deafness, eye defects, heart malformations and neurological problems. Fortunately, 90 percent of the U.S. population has antibodies and is immune to rubella either because they received the vaccine as a child or had the illness.
Prevention During Pregnancy
The best way to prevent rubella is to see a doctor before you are pregnant, have your blood tested for antibodies and get vaccinated if necessary. Also get early and regular prenatal care. You will likely get a blood test during your first prenatal checkup that will show if you have the antibodies for rubella.
Reducing Your Risk
If it is determined after you are pregnant that you do not have rubella antibodies, reduce your risk of being infected by making sure your children and anyone else living with you have had their vaccines. You cannot get rubella from someone who was recently vaccinated. Also avoid contact with others if there is a known case of rubella in your community, and don't travel to parts of the world where rubella is still common.
