Had chickenpox as a child but am now pregnant and have been around who has exposed to what do you do?

If you are pregnant and have been exposed to chickenpox, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. While it is usually a mild illness in children, it can be more severe in adults and can cause serious complications for pregnant women and unborn babies.

Potential risks of chickenpox during pregnancy include:

- Miscarriage: Chickenpox can increase the risk of miscarriage, especially if it occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy.

- Congenital varicella syndrome (CVS): If a pregnant woman gets chickenpox within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, she can pass the virus to her unborn baby. This can lead to CVS, a rare but serious condition that can cause a range of birth defects, including skin scarring, eye problems, limb abnormalities, and mental disabilities.

- Preterm labor and low birth weight: Chickenpox can also increase the risk of preterm labor and low birth weight.

If you are pregnant and have been exposed to chickenpox, your doctor may recommend the following:

- Chickenpox vaccine: If you have not been vaccinated against chickenpox, your doctor may recommend that you get the vaccine as soon as possible after exposure. The vaccine can help to reduce the risk of developing chickenpox and its complications.

- Antiviral medication: If you develop chickenpox, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication to help reduce the severity of the illness and prevent complications.

It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully if you are pregnant and have been exposed to chickenpox.