Pregnancy and chicken pox

[Msd2416]

Has anyone ever experienced chicken pox pregnant? I’ve literally just found out I’m pregnant with baby number 2 but yesterday my DD came out in a rash which we think could be chicken pox and I’ve never had it before!

I would speak to your midwife as you may need testing to see if you have immunity. Chicken pox can have adverse effects in pregnancy

Speak to your midwife.

I was exposed to chicken pox whilst very heavily pregnant, a child in my class was sent in to school with it at an infectious stage. I didn’t need to take any further action as I’ve already had it but I remember the midwife being more concerned as I was nearly full term.

Sorry just realised you probably don’t have a midwife yet! In that case I would contact your GP surgery.

Yup talk to GP straight away, get your daughter reviewed to see if it is chickenpox, and you need urgent antibody testing arranged. if it can’t be done urgently or antibodies confirm no previous chickenpox then you need to be given VZIG (immunoglobulin) to decrease chances of infection.
If you catch it there’s a very small risk to baby - about 1/200. Also adult chickenpox and esp in pregnancy can make you more unwell - usually more of a problem in third trimester.
In the meantime is there anyone who can take over some of the childcare duty for your daughter to limit your exposure?