How does cytomegalovirus affect a baby?

Some babies with congenital CMV infection have health problems that are apparent at birth or that develop later during infancy or childhood. In the most severe cases, CMV can cause the death of an unborn baby (pregnancy loss). Some babies with congenital CMV infection have signs at birth.

Can you have a healthy pregnancy with CMV?

Most CMV infections are “silent” and harmless, but in pregnant women, CMV can be transmitted to the fetus, with sometimes devastating effects to the unborn baby and newborn. Therefore, it is important if you are pregnant, or know someone who is pregnant, to be “CMV Aware” and “CMV Cautious”.

Does CMV cause miscarriage?

It is not known if CMV increases the chance of miscarriage. How likely is it that CMV infection in pregnancy will pass to the baby? When a person is pregnant and infected with CMV for the first time, there is about a 40% chance that it will pass to the baby.

When can I get pregnant after CMV?

If you are experiencing an active CMV infection, most experts recommend that women wait six to twelve months before trying to conceive again.

Should I worry about CMV in pregnancy?

If you get infected with CMV during pregnancy, it may cause pregnancy loss or serious health problems in your baby, including preterm birth or low birthweight, or hearing loss at birth or later in life. CMV is the leading cause of hearing loss in this country, causing 1 in 3 cases of hearing loss.

Can CMV cause birth defects?

If a pregnant woman is infected with CMV, she can pass it to her developing baby. This is called congenital CMV, and it can cause birth defects and other health problems.

Is CMV permanent?

CMV infection is permanent Once a person has contracted CMV, they will carry it for life. This is because the virus lies dormant inside the body and may or may not reactivate itself at any time.

Can CMV affect future pregnancy?