Zika Virus Concerns in Pregnancy
The short answer
Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects including microcephaly. The virus is primarily spread through mosquito bites in affected regions and through sexual transmission. Pregnant people should avoid travel to areas with active Zika transmission, use insect repellent containing DEET (safe in pregnancy), and practice safe sex if a partner has traveled to a Zika-affected area.
Parents everywhere have the same worry. You are doing the right thing by looking into it.
By Age
What to expect by age
Zika infection in the first trimester appears to carry the highest risk for microcephaly and other congenital abnormalities. Avoid travel to areas with Zika transmission. If travel is unavoidable, take strict mosquito prevention measures. DEET-containing insect repellents are safe and recommended during pregnancy.
Zika can cause harm at any stage of pregnancy. Continue to avoid endemic areas and use mosquito prevention. If your partner has traveled to a Zika area, use condoms or abstain from sex for the duration of pregnancy, as Zika can remain in semen for months.
Same precautions apply. If you traveled to or live in a Zika area and develop symptoms (fever, rash, joint pain, red eyes), get tested. Even without symptoms, testing may be recommended based on exposure. Additional ultrasounds may be offered to monitor for Zika-related findings.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Taking preventive measures against mosquito bites during pregnancy
- Avoiding travel to Zika-endemic areas
- You live in or have traveled to a Zika-affected area
- Your partner has traveled to a Zika area
- You develop Zika-like symptoms (fever, rash, joint pain)
- You test positive for Zika during pregnancy - specialist referral and additional monitoring are needed
- Ultrasound findings suggestive of Zika-related abnormalities
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
Travel During Pregnancy
Travel during pregnancy is generally safe for most people with uncomplicated pregnancies. The second trimester (14-28 weeks) is often considered the best time to travel, as morning sickness has typically passed and energy levels are higher. Always wear your seatbelt with the lap belt under your belly, take breaks to walk on long trips, and carry a copy of your prenatal records.
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.
Less Movement with Anterior Placenta
An anterior placenta (attached to the front wall of the uterus) acts as a cushion between the baby and your belly wall, which can make movements feel muffled or less intense. You may feel movement later (22-24 weeks instead of 18-20) and primarily on the sides and lower belly. This is normal, but you should still feel regular movement once it is established.