Navigating Measles Concerns During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
In recent times, infectious diseases have frequently made headlines. While the COVID-19 pandemic dominated the news, other threats like flu, RSV, mpox, and syphilis continue to spread. Recently, measles has resurfaced, raising concerns among those planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or breastfeeding.
During a live chat at MotherToBaby, Alyssa, who is 18 weeks pregnant, expressed concern about a measles case at her son’s preschool. It’s a valid worry, given that measles, a highly contagious respiratory disease, can live in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms of measles appear 7-14 days post-infection and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a body-wide rash. While there’s no increased risk for birth defects, measles during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, and stillbirth.
I first asked Alyssa if she had received the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. One dose is 93% effective, and two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles. Alyssa confirmed she was fully vaccinated, which was reassuring. She also mentioned that the measles case was reported two weeks ago, and since neither she nor her son showed symptoms, infection was unlikely.
Protection at All Reproductive Life Stages
Pre-Conception
Ensure your MMR vaccines are up-to-date before pregnancy. If unsure, consult your healthcare provider for records or a blood test to check immunity. If not immune, get two doses of the MMR vaccine and wait one month after the last shot before trying to conceive.
During Pregnancy
Pregnant individuals should avoid live vaccines like MMR. Focus on prevention: practice good hygiene, avoid crowded places during outbreaks, and steer clear of known risk areas.
Breastfeeding
Once no longer pregnant, the MMR vaccine is safe to receive and compatible with breastfeeding, with no expected side effects for the baby.
If you have questions about measles or the MMR vaccine during pregnancy stages, MotherToBaby is here to help. Contact us at 866-626-6847 or chat with our specialists.
