If you are planning to get pregnant, you should have the rubella immunity test first. Even if you were vaccinated at school, immunity does not last as long as previously thought and the effects of the vaccine may have worn off. If you are not immune, you cannot have the jab while pregnant because the vaccination contains a live virus which could cause rubella infection in the baby. For the same reason, you should not become pregnant for at least a month after having your rubella jab.
Symptoms of rubella are mild and include fever, headache, joint pains and sore throat. A rash of small pink-red spots usually appears shortly after the glands swell.
First trimester (weeks 0 to 13): During this trimester there is a very high risk (up to 90%) your baby will be affected. The earlier in your pregnancy that you catch rubella, the greater the risk to the baby.
After week 10 the risk to the baby is reduced, however, they may develop problems with their sight or hearing that do not become apparent until they are older.
2nd trimester (weeks 14 to 26): In weeks 14 and 15 there is still a risk to the baby. They may develop problems with their sight or hearing that may not become apparent until they are older.
After week 16 the risk to the baby is low.
3rd trimester (week 27 to birth): After week 16 the risk to the baby is low.
If you are pregnant and you know you are not immune to rubella you must keep away from anyone who has rubella especially in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. If you come into contact with someone with rubella you should see your GP immediately. They will be able to diagnose rubella and may offer you a test to see if your baby has been affected. If this is the case, you will be encouraged to have some counselling and talk to your consultant, GP, nurse or midwife. There are a number of options available to parents who are expecting a baby affected by congenital rubella syndrome. Depending on the severity of the infection, the options range from dealing with the effects on the baby (eg cataracts, heart problems, deafness), to ending the pregnancy.
N.B. If you are having chemotherapy, or if your immune system is low for another reason, or if you are allergic to the drugs neomycin or polymyxin, you should not have the rubella vaccination. See your GP for advice.
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