Pregnancy is one of the most delicate and joyful phases in a woman's life. But what if something invisible puts that joy at risk? Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a virus many have never even heard of, can silently harm both mother and baby. Most pregnant women may not even know they’ve been infected until complications arise.Here’s what every mum-to-be must know. This isn’t just another virus; it’s a hidden threat that deserves serious attention.
CMV is a common virus from the herpes family. While it doesn’t cause serious illness in healthy adults, it can be dangerous during pregnancy. If a woman gets infected with CMV for the first time while pregnant, the virus can pass to the unborn baby through the placenta. This is called congenital CMV.Babies born with CMV may have birth defects or long-term health problems. Hearing loss, vision issues, developmental delays, and seizures are among the potential risks. Unfortunately, most infected babies look normal at birth, making early detection hard.
The virus spreads through bodily fluids like saliva, urine, blood, semen, and breast milk. Pregnant women often contract CMV by:
Toddlers with CMV can shed the virus for months. So, mums with toddlers at home or women working with children need to be extra careful.
Here’s the scary part: CMV often shows no symptoms. If symptoms appear, they can feel like mild flu:
These signs are easy to miss or dismiss during pregnancy. That’s why CMV is often left undiagnosed until complications arise in the baby.
When a baby is infected with CMV in the womb, the outcomes vary. Some may have no issues. Others may face serious developmental and health problems such as:
The severity depends on when the infection occurs during pregnancy. First-trimester infections are often the most dangerous.
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent CMV, but you can reduce the risk with a few precautions:
These simple steps can go a long way in lowering the chances of catching CMV.
Yes, but it’s not a routine test. If a pregnant woman shows symptoms or if there’s concern, doctors might order:
Ultrasounds may also help spot signs of CMV, like growth issues or brain abnormalities in the baby. However, many infections go unnoticed without testing.
If congenital CMV is diagnosed, the baby may be monitored closely during pregnancy. After birth, tests will confirm the diagnosis, including urine and saliva tests within the first three weeks of life.Some babies might be treated with antiviral medicines like Letermovir, available as Anvimo 240mg, especially if symptoms are severe. Early treatment can reduce complications but may not prevent all problems. Regular hearing checks and developmental follow-ups are essential.
Finding out your baby has CMV can be overwhelming. But support is out there. Hospitals may provide access to:
Early intervention programmes help babies with CMV reach their full potential. Emotional support for parents is equally important, and counselling is highly recommended.
CMV stays in the body for life, but the risk of serious infection in future pregnancies is lower. This is because the mother’s immune system usually keeps the virus in check.However, there is still a slight risk of passing it to the baby again, especially if the virus reactivates or the mother catches a different strain. Regular check-ups and talking to a doctor about past infections can help manage the risk.
CMV may be silent, but its impact is loud. Awareness is your best weapon. If you're pregnant or planning to be, speak with your healthcare provider about CMV. Testing might not be routine, but it can be life-changing if caught early.One simple step could protect your baby’s future. Whether it’s handwashing or avoiding shared cups, don’t underestimate the little things. Knowledge is power, and in this case, protection.