Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the most common and potentially dangerous infections during pregnancy, yet it remains largely unknown among expectant mothers.
This article explores in detail the risks during pregnancy and prevention strategies, with the goal of raising awareness about this important topic in maternal and fetal health.
What is Cytomegalovirus?
Cytomegalovirus is a virus belonging to the Herpesvirus family, widely spread in the population.
Most infected individuals do not show symptoms, but the virus can cause severe complications in immunocompromised individuals and, most notably, in developing fetuses if contracted during pregnancy.
Prevalence and Risks During Pregnancy
Cytomegalovirus infection is the most common congenital infection, affecting about 0.5-2% of all newborns in developed countries. What makes CMV particularly insidious is its ability to cross the placenta and infect the fetus, with potentially serious consequences:
- Neurological damage
- Hearing loss
- Visual problems
- Developmental delays
- In rare cases, fetal or neonatal death
The Current Lack of Awareness
Despite its prevalence and potential risks, awareness of CMV among women of childbearing age remains surprisingly low.
A study published in PLOS One revealed that only 20% of the women surveyed had heard of CMV, a lower percentage than for other, less common pediatric conditions.
This lack of knowledge results in an underestimation of the risks and a lower adoption of essential preventive measures.
Transmission and Risk Factors
CMV is transmitted through bodily fluids, including saliva, urine, blood, and genital secretions. Pregnant women are particularly at risk of contracting the infection through close contact with young children, who often shed the virus for extended periods after infection.
Specific risk factors include:
- Working with young children (e.g., in daycare settings)
- Already having preschool-aged children
- Unprotected sexual intercourse
- Poor hand hygiene
Diagnosis and Screening
Currently, there is no universal screening for cytomegalovirus during pregnancy in most countries. Diagnosis generally relies on serological tests that detect the presence of specific antibodies in maternal blood.
Types of tests include:
- IgG and IgM antibody tests
- IgG antibody avidity tests
- PCR to detect viral DNA
In cases of suspected fetal infection, further tests, such as amniocentesis, may be necessary.
Prevention: The Key to Protecting the Fetus
Given the absence of a vaccine and definitive treatment, prevention remains the most effective weapon against cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy. Preventive measures include:
- Frequent handwashing, especially after contact with young children
- Avoiding sharing utensils, food, or drinks with children
- Not kissing children on or near the mouth
- Avoiding contact with children’s saliva and urine
- Practicing safe sex, especially during pregnancy
Treatment and Management
If CMV infection is diagnosed during pregnancy, treatment options are limited:
- Careful monitoring of fetal development through serial ultrasounds
- In some cases, antiviral therapy may be considered, though its use during pregnancy is controversial
- Psychological support for affected women and families
For infected newborns, early treatment with antivirals can improve outcomes, particularly in terms of hearing function.
The Importance of Education and Awareness
Raising awareness of CMV among women of childbearing age is crucial.
The study mentioned earlier showed that once informed of the risks, women show a strong interest in screening and preventive measures.
Even a simple article like this can help increase awareness of this serious risk to our children and how to avoid it.
In an era where medical information is widely available, women of childbearing age and expectant mothers must receive accurate and timely information about CMV.
We hope to reduce the impact of this silent but potentially devastating infection through knowledge and awareness.
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SOURCES
Awareness of congenital cytomegalovirus and acceptance of maternal and newborn screening
Katie J. Tastad, Mark R. Schleiss, Sara M. Lammert, Nicole E. BastaÂ
Published on: August 26, 2019
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0221725