Quick test

A quick test to determine whether a pregnant woman is suffering from rubella does not exist in this sense. Depending on the blood test, one waits a few days to weeks for the result. Once the blood parameters characteristic for anemia can be determined.

Then the blood can be tested for antibodies against the rubella virus. These are highest after 2-3 weeks after infection. It is also possible to detect the virus itself in the blood and bone marrow of pregnant women or in the amniotic fluid.

Therapy

There is still no therapy against the Pravovirus-B19, which causes rubella. Depending on the symptoms and their severity, the aim is to relieve the symptoms. In case of fever, sufficient drinking quantities should be ensured.

Physical protection also contributes to the improvement of the condition. If itching occurs during the development of the rash, household remedies or products such as Fenistil cream can be used. Close-meshed checks by ultrasound examinations must be carried out by a gynecologist.

A Doppler ultrasound examination, which checks the flow in the placenta blood vessels, can detect anemia in the child. If there are any abnormalities, the child’s hemoglobin level in the blood is then examined. If this is below a certain level, a blood transfusion must be given to the child via the umbilical cord vein as therapy. The expectant mothers should also pay attention to changes in the child’s physical activity. Regular check-ups by gynecologists and protection of the mother are therefore essential.

Duration

The duration of rubella disease in pregnant women does not differ from the normal population. From the time of infection it takes about 4-14 days until the disease breaks out. The rash usually remains for a week, but may recur in the weeks after. If joint problems occur, they usually last for 3-4 weeks. If the virus is transmitted to the unborn child via the placenta, it takes about 8-12 weeks before the complications occur in the baby.