Chickenpox in Pregnancy: Safe Treatment Options and Precautions in Bangalore

 Introduction

Chickenpox during pregnancy is something that needs great care and consideration. It is important for every mother expecting a child to understand what this infection may mean both to her and the fetus. Chickenpox is a serious viral infection that could cause major complications if medical treatment is not obtained timely manner. Fortunately, if treated appropriately, chickenpox can be managed safely. 

At Revive Hospitals in Bangalore, this will be addressed with a high level of management for infections regarding pregnancy. Dr. Snehalatha Alapati is a qualified and experienced OB/GYN who provides personal care for a safe and cautious treatment for mothers expecting babies who are affected by chickenpox. If you even suspect that you could have chickenpox during your pregnancy, it is recommended that you have yourself assessed medically sooner. 

 What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It spreads easily between people through coughing, sneezing, or direct touching of the rash. Common symptoms include a red, itchy rash, small fluid-filled blisters, fever, and tiredness. The red, itchy rash almost always appears first on the chest, back, or face, and then spreads to other places. 

Most people will not have severe illness from chickenpox, and it lasts from one or two weeks on average. However, the risk for complications is higher during pregnancy. Pregnant women who have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine have an increased risk of illness.  If you are not immune to chickenpox, you can get it easily just by being around someone with chickenpox. Chickenpox virus is highly contagious, and it can also remain in the air for some period of time after someone coughs or sneezes. 

In pregnancy, chickenpox can lead to more severe illness, and the risk of complications increases. It is important to check your immunity status before or early during pregnancy. If you are not sure about your immunity status, you can ask Revive Hospital for a blood test to see if you have protective immunity to the varicella virus.

 Risks of Chickenpox During Pregnancy

 Impact on the Mother

Chickenpox while pregnant could produce more severe outcomes of the illness. The mother could develop pneumonia, which is a serious infection of the lungs. In some cases, mothers also see liver inflammation or even encephalitis, which is a type of brain inflammation.

Additionally, the expectant mother can get a high fever and shortness of breath. These types of complications could affect how the mother feels as the illness progresses and could require admission to the hospital for observation or treatment.

Impact on the Baby

If a mother gets chickenpox early in her pregnancy, the unborn baby could experience a rare condition known as Congenital Varicella Syndrome (CVS). In this situation, the baby could sustain birth defects, including scarring of the skin, eye defects, or even growth issues.

If the mother experiences varicella close to the time of delivery, the baby could experience neonatal varicella, which is very severe and could be fatal if there is no medical intervention. For these reasons, it is often important to reach out to Dr. Snehalatha at Revive Hospital, if possible, as soon as a mother begins to see any of the symptoms of chickenpox. Early management will help to provide coverage for the mother and the baby.

 Symptoms of Chickenpox in Pregnancy

The most common signs of chickenpox include the following:

• Itchy red rash that becomes blister-like 
• Fever and headache 
• Aches and fatigue 
• Loss of appetite 
• Overall malaise 

Pregnant women sometimes can have elevated fevers and rashes that are more prominent than those who are not pregnant. The itchiness can be just as bad and can be intensely miserable for pregnant women. In general, the rash often appears rapidly on the body. 

Your immune system does go through structural changes when you are pregnant (e.g., some of those changes could lead to longer times for your body to mount an effective immune response against the infection). Therefore, it is advised to see your doctor in a reasonable time frame if any of these signs occur.

Treatment Options for Chickenpox During Pregnancy 

 Antiviral Medications

Acyclovir is an antiviral medicine often used to treat chickenpox. It helps reduce the severity of symptoms if taken early. Your doctor may suggest it within 24 hours of the rash appearing.

If the infection is serious, doctors may give acyclovir through an IV in the hospital. This helps the medicine work faster and control the virus.

Pain and Fever Relief

You can take acetaminophen (paracetamol) to control fever and pain. Avoid using aspirin, as it can harm your baby.

Hospital Care 

If the infection is severe or if there are breathing problems, hospital care is needed. Doctors at Revive Hospitals monitor your condition closely and provide safe treatment. Do not take any medicine without your doctor’s advice. Self-treatment during pregnancy can be risky.

Precautions to Take if Exposed to Chickenpox During Pregnancy 

Preventing Exposure:

If you are pregnant and have not had chickenpox or the vaccine, you need to exercise caution. Chickenpox particles are easily spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or from the fluid of chickenpox or shingles blisters. It is best to steer clear of anyone with chickenpox or shingles, especially in the first and second trimesters. 

Blood Tests:

If you think you may have been exposed, see your doctor as soon as possible after exposure. Early intervention could prevent serious medical complications. Your doctor may want to do a blood test to see if you’re immune to varicella. If not, they may suggest post-exposure prophylaxis.

Post-exposure Prophylaxis: 

The most effective treatment will be VZIG (Varicella Zoster Immune Globulin) injection after suspected exposure. It is given to mothers to reduce the severity of the disease or prevent it altogether. Again, VZIG is most effective when given within ten days of exposure to chickenpox. It is safe for use during pregnancy for both mother and baby, and it is recommended for women who cannot receive the vaccine during pregnancy. Additionally, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medicines like acyclovir to help control the virus and reduce the risk of complications.

When to Seek Medical Help for Chickenpox in Pregnancy  

If you come across any signs of chickenpox while pregnant, please seek health care assistance at your request, which may allow you to receive the early treatment you need to recover quickly and safely. 

While in the clinic, please let Dr. Snehalatha know as soon as possible if you have:

• any fever that is higher than normal
• have breathing problems 
• have chest pain 
• have a rash or blisters 
• have confusion or weakness 

Even if you are having mild symptoms, we still want you to be assessed by a medical practitioner for the safety of you and your unborn child. Seeking medical attention promptly may help prevent severe outcomes.

Chickenpox Vaccination and Pregnancy  

Vaccination Before Pregnancy: 

The chickenpox vaccination before pregnancy is one of the best ways to avoid infection. It is important to get tested (before planning a pregnancy) if you have never had chickenpox and are not sure if you have immunity. The vaccination helps the body develop protection against the varicella-zoster virus, while at the same time preventing serious disease during pregnancy. Women receiving the vaccination should refrain from attempting to conceive for at least one month post-vaccination, for the safety of both mother and future baby.

Post-exposure Vaccination: 

The chickenpox vaccination contains a live but attenuated virus; it is not safe during pregnancy. However, if you are pregnant and not immune, your doctor will not recommend the vaccination until you have given birth. Once you have delivered your baby, you can receive the vaccination to protect your future pregnancies. This also protects your newborn as well as family members from spreading chickenpox.

Testing for Immunity : 

If you are pregnant and unsure about your immunity, please talk to your doctor about a blood test to check your antibody levels. This simple blood test will indicate if you need protection.

By taking these precautions, you can help reduce your risk of getting chickenpox and keep both you and your baby healthy. For safe and trusted pregnancy care, visit Revive Hospital in Bangalore to consult with Dr. Snehalatha, your trusted gynecologist.

Home Remedies to Alleviate Chickenpox Symptoms During Pregnancy 

There are a few informal therapies you can try to make yourself comfortable while your physician is monitoring your progress. 

Hydration: 

Drink plenty of liquids, including water, broth/soups, and fresh juices. It will help with hydration and will generally help your recovery. 

Soothing Baths:  

You can float in cool bath water to help relieve the itch. You can also change up your soak, and add oatmeal and/or baking soda to your bath water to help relieve your skin. 

Rest: 

You will also want to be sure you are getting enough rest. Do not scratch your rash to avoid infection or scarring. 

You may find that wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing will reduce your irritation, as well.

What to Remember About Chickenpox in Pregnancy 

Chickenpox in pregnancy can and must be treated, but you will need to devote time and attention to it. You should seek help as soon as possible. Don’t ignore symptoms like fever or rash. Dr. Snehalatha Alapati at Revive hospitals, Bangalore, will help you understand what is the best, safest, and effective way to treat you. With proper care and monitoring, most women can fully recover with no complications. The health of you and the unborn baby will always be the priority.