Can anyone reassure me about Cytomegalovirus (CMV)? Freaking out

[User3433399]

I'm wondering if anyone else has had a positive Torch Screen for CMV and then all has been fine with your baby?

I've just been told I tested positive on a sample taken at about 34 weeks (I'm now over 36), which would mean I'd contracted CMV in the previous 2-3 three months, so I guess somewhere in the late second or early third trimester. It appears I have a 'primary' infection, i.e. I've contracted it for the first time so don't have any previous immunity.

I've done all the usual Googling and read the NHS information, which frankly has really freaked me out in terms of risks of long term conditions and disabilities for the baby. I can't get a true sense of how likely this is, especially as the virus itself seems to be very common in the population. I've been called in to see the consultant immediately but have no idea what will be said or done.

I'm just looking for some reassurance really. I was really looking forward to the last weeks of pregnancy and now I am so worried for my baby.

TIA

Hi
Thanks for your message. My amnios were negative for cmv thanks. The antivirals were successful. 27 weeks now and naturally still anxious but so far so good, all positive xx

Excellent news, so pleased to hear that!

Hello, I know this thread is old but I've just found out I'm pregnant and I've got a 17 month old daughter who goes to nursery. As a result I'm now worried about CMV. Do you have any advice for those who were diagnosed? Should I get tested? I heard that the test just reveals you have antibodies but you could still catch another strain.

Any advice on how to avoid it?

If you have any questions about CMV in pregnancy please email us (CMV Action) with your enquiry on [email protected] or leave a message on our helpline which is 0808 802 0030. We are the only charity in the UK offering support and advice about CMV and trying to raise awareness about the virus.CMV Action

I gave birth to my daughter in nyc. I was admitted to hospital at 37 weeks as my heart rate was very high. I was then told “so you’re positive for cmv. What we doing about that?” I was fucking she’ll shocked. I met with a genetic councillor. I had a scan. I was told of the risks. Then I was induced that day.

i was that my daughter could have a host of problems. I was told she would likely be tiny and coveted in blotches. She was 8lbs 1 and 2 feet long. Perfectly pink. They took her for tests and checked her hearing. She’s now a healthy incredibly long 6 1/2 year old with plenty of opinions. There is nothing you can do at this stage of your pregnancy and worrying is going to rob you of joy. The stats are on your side.

Anyone had experience with sister becoming pregnant after yourself? I’m 11 weeks and just found out my sister is 5+weeks pregnant. After she caused stressed an arguments because I was pregnant. Now feel like I can’t enjoy my pregnancy..

Hi @Ceejeewillbee, I’m not sure if you’ll see this, but wanted to see how you are getting on. I am in an identical situation to you - diagnosed with CMV (mine is primary) and I have started on antivirals in my first trimester. Wondering if you’d be able to share how you and your little one are doing?
Thank you

Hi, firstly sorry you’re going through this. I contracted cmv around 10/12 weeks and immediately went under the care of ashma khalil at St George London. I took antivirals until around 20/22 weeks and then had amnios. The virus hadn’t crossed. I was scanned every few weeks until birth. My daughter was born healthy and perfect. I remember the stress and worry like it was yesterday. If you want to chat let me know x

You are so kind to respond @Ceejeewillbee thank you! I am soooo glad to hear your daughter is doing well. Does she have any check ups associated with CMV now or is it completely out of the picture?

Can I ask (if you know) what the gap was between you having the CMV infection and then starting antivirals? We reckon I was infected in early April, detected on bloods end of April and have just started antivirals early May. Curious to know what other timelines look like…

Thank you thank you thank you. Xxx

Hi
CMV was completely out of the picture before I had baby. After aminos all much more relaxed and the scans that followed were just further reassurance. No extra checks or tests post birth. She has no health issues or checkups. All is well and perfect! Keep positive xx

To add
cmv tested at 12 weeks on my request and the avidity score was high so likely contracted very recently so I would say around 10 weeks. Started treatment around 14 weeks

I didnt even know there was treatement for CMV, thats' great @Ceejeewillbee I too saw Asma Khalil this week for an amnio (separate issue)

I had a scare with my first baby in that she had echogenic bowel and cmv infection was a concern. I didn't have it but i did research it ad nauseum

Hope all the ladies who have written here since 2013 are all well, and all your babies have gone on to lead healthy and full lives

Hi @Ceejeewillbee - hope you are well. We had our amnio last week and were overwhelmed with relief when the result came back negative - I wouldn’t wish waiting on those results on my worst enemy… but a huge weight has been lifted and we now feel we can enjoy this pregnancy. Can I ask whether you stopped the antivirals following the negative amnio or continued on for a bit / until birth? Thank you so much 🙏

Amazing news!! The remember that great feeling
anti virals stopped following negative amnios
enjoy the rest of your pregnancy xx