Varicella (Chicken Pox) Exposure While Pregnant
The short answer
Varicella (chickenpox) during pregnancy can cause complications for both parent and baby, including varicella pneumonia in the parent and congenital varicella syndrome in the baby (rare, mostly with first/second trimester infection). Most adults are immune through vaccination or previous infection. If you are exposed and unsure of your immunity, contact your provider immediately for testing.
This is one of the most common questions parents ask. Searching for answers means you care.
By Age
What to expect by age
Varicella infection between 8-20 weeks carries the highest (but still low - about 1-2%) risk of congenital varicella syndrome. If you are exposed and not immune, varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG) given within 96 hours of exposure can prevent or reduce severity of infection. The varicella vaccine itself should NOT be given during pregnancy.
Varicella infection around the time of delivery (5 days before to 2 days after) is the most dangerous timing for the newborn. The baby may develop severe neonatal varicella. If you develop chickenpox near your due date, your medical team will take steps to protect the baby.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Having documented immunity through vaccination or previous infection
- Being exposed to chickenpox when you are known to be immune
- You have been exposed to someone with chickenpox or shingles and are unsure of your immunity
- You do not know if you were vaccinated or had chickenpox as a child
- You are not immune and have been exposed to chickenpox - contact your provider within 24 hours for possible VZIG
- You develop a vesicular rash (fluid-filled blisters) during pregnancy
- Chickenpox symptoms near your due date
Sources
Related Resources
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician.
Worrying about your baby means you care. That is a good thing.
Related Maternal Concerns
Parvovirus B19 (Fifth Disease) in Pregnancy
Fifth disease (caused by Parvovirus B19) is usually mild in adults but can pose risks during pregnancy, including fetal anemia and hydrops fetalis in rare cases. About 50-60% of adults are already immune from childhood exposure. If you are exposed during pregnancy, blood testing can determine your immunity status and guide monitoring.
CMV (Cytomegalovirus) Infection Risk in Pregnancy
CMV is the most common congenital infection, affecting about 1 in 200 babies. Many adults already have CMV antibodies. Primary (first-time) CMV infection during pregnancy carries the highest risk to the baby. Prevention centers on frequent hand washing, especially after contact with young children's saliva, urine, and other body fluids.
Dealing with Abnormal Prenatal Screening Results
An abnormal prenatal screening result can be terrifying, but it is important to understand that screening tests are designed to cast a wide net and have significant false-positive rates. Most people with abnormal screening results go on to have healthy babies after further testing confirms the baby is fine. An abnormal screening is a reason for more information, not a diagnosis.
Pregnancy Over 35 (Advanced Maternal Age)
While pregnancy after 35 carries some increased risks (including chromosomal abnormalities, gestational diabetes, and hypertension), the vast majority of people over 35 have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. The term "geriatric pregnancy" is outdated and does not reflect reality. With appropriate prenatal care and monitoring, outcomes are excellent.
Amniocentesis Questions and Fears
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test performed between 15-20 weeks that analyzes amniotic fluid to detect chromosomal conditions and genetic disorders with over 99% accuracy. The risk of pregnancy loss from the procedure is approximately 1 in 500-1,000 when performed by an experienced provider. Understanding the actual risks can help you make an informed decision.
20-Week Anatomy Scan Unexpected Findings
The 20-week anatomy scan checks your baby's major organs, structures, and growth. Most scans are completely normal. When unexpected findings are identified, they range from minor variants that resolve on their own to conditions that need further evaluation. Many findings require nothing more than a follow-up ultrasound to confirm the baby is developing well.