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Pregnancy and glandular fever Glandular fever is an infectious illness that's caused by the herpes family of viruses. Lots of people have already had the virus by the time they're an adult, but symptoms may have been so mild you didn 't realise. Once you've had glandular fever, your body makes antibodies against it, and it's extremely rare to get it again. It's hard to catch glandular fever because it is spread in saliva through intimate contact such as kissing. It's most common in teenagers and young adults.   Article continues below advertisement   Because it is difficult to catch and more common in young people, glandular fever doesn't usually pose a risk to pregnant women. If you do catch it while pregnant, there is no evidence that it harms the unborn baby. In severe cases of glandular fever complications such as jaundice, hepatitis and brain inflammation can occur. However, this is very rare, and most people recover within a few weeks. © Crown Copyright  (www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk 30/09/2007)     Risks and Health Concerns During Pregnancy  Alcohol and pregnancy  Smoking in pregnancy  Contact with animals during pregnancy  Rubella and HIV  Which viruses can harm an unborn baby?  more.... Travelling While Pregnant  How can I avoid food poisoning and diarrhoea when travelling?  Can I have vaccinations during pregnancy?  When is it safe to travel by plane?  more.... Pregnancy  Pregnant But Can't Poo?  Perineal massage  Top Tips for Relaxing During Pregnancy  The Usual Signs of Pregnancy  Glossary of Pregnancy Words  more.... Latest Forum Discussions Just can't wait now... back from scan Unengaged? Slightly concerned OMG - worst pain ever!! Only 1 week to go! decided  Pregnancy Cravings  Pregnancy for Beginners  Pregnancy - A Constant Round of Blood Tests?  Read some Pregnancy Features here  Read the Latest Baby and Pregnancy News