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Varicella (Chickenpox) in Pregnancy

Varicella infection in pregnancy carries the risk of both maternal pneumonia and congenital varicella syndrome.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Varicella (Chickenpox) in Pregnancy?

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) belongs to the herpesvirus family. Primary infection causes chickenpox, while reactivation causes zoster. It is transmitted by droplets and contact with vesicle fluid. It was added to the vaccine schedule in Turkey at a later date.

Varicella in pregnancy is a rare but severe condition in seronegative women. The risk of developing maternal pneumonia is 10-20% with mortality rates higher than in non-pregnant individuals. Infection acquired between 8-20 weeks of pregnancy carries the risk of congenital varicella syndrome (~2%).

Congenital varicella syndrome is characterized by limb hypoplasia, skin scars, chorioretinitis, and microcephaly. Since neonatal varicella may be fatal in infections acquired 5 days before or 2 days after delivery, varicella zoster immunoglobulin (VZIG) should be administered.

Symptoms

Fever, fatigue, and widespread vesicular rash
Dermatomal spread on the face, trunk, and extremities
Mucosal involvement and pain
Cough, shortness of breath (pneumonia)
Limb hypoplasia on ultrasonography
Fetal cortical atrophy
Widespread vesicles and severe systemic disease in the newborn

Risk Factors

Seronegative pregnant women
Being unvaccinated
Household contact and young children
Immunosuppression
Being a healthcare worker
History of foreign travel

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Within 24-96 hours after close contact with someone with chickenpox
  • When fever and vesicular rash begin
  • On development of shortness of breath, chest pain, or hemoptysis
  • On development of varicella close to delivery
  • When vesicles are noticed in the newborn

Treatment Methods

01
VZIG prophylaxis after seronegative contact (within 96 hours)
02
Oral or IV acyclovir in active disease
03
Hospitalization and supportive treatment in pneumonia development
04
VZIG and acyclovir for the newborn in perinatal varicella
05
Vaccination: pre-pregnancy or postpartum
06
Fetal follow-up: ultrasonography and MRI if needed

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.