What if I get mpox (monkeypox) in pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a time when expectant mothers must be particularly vigilant about their health, as changes in the immune system can affect how the body responds to infections. In recent years, there has been growing concern about mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) outbreaks around the world, including in the UK. While mpox is generally a mild disease in most healthy adults, if you’re pregnant, you may have extra concerns about how it might affect both you and your baby.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about mpox during pregnancy, including symptoms, risks, treatments, and how you can protect yourself. It’s important to rely on expert advice and evidence-based resources to ensure that both you and your baby stay as safe as possible throughout your pregnancy.

What is mpox (Monkeypox)?

Mpox is a viral disease that is similar to smallpox but much less severe. It was first identified in monkeys in the 1950s, but the virus can be transmitted between humans. Recent outbreaks, including in the UK, have drawn attention due to the virus’s ability to spread among people who have close contact with an infected individual, particularly through skin-to-skin contact.

The symptoms of mpox typically include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash that can appear on the face, hands, or other areas of the body. The rash eventually forms scabs and can be itchy or painful.

How is mpox transmitted?

Mpox can be transmitted through:

Close contact with an infected person: The virus is mainly spread via bodily fluids, skin lesions, or respiratory droplets.

Contaminated objects: Touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with the virus can also lead to transmission.

Animals: Though rare, the virus can be transmitted from animals to humans through bites or scratches.

Because of this, it’s important to limit exposure to infected individuals or animals during your pregnancy to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.

Is mpox more dangerous during pregnancy?

If you contract mpox while pregnant, there are some potential risks to both you and your baby. While the risk of severe outcomes is generally low for most pregnant individuals, there are still concerns that are worth discussing with your antenatal care team. Some studies suggest that pregnant women who contract mpox could have an increased risk of complications, including:

Miscarriage: In some cases, infections during pregnancy can lead to a miscarriage, particularly if the virus causes significant illness in the mother.

Preterm labour: The stress of an infection, combined with other factors, could potentially lead to early labour.

Vertical transmission: There’s also the possibility of the virus being transmitted to the baby during pregnancy, though cases of congenital mpox (where the baby is born with the virus) have been very rare. Still, if transmission does occur, it could cause serious health complications for your baby.

Given the complexity of infections during pregnancy, it’s always important to seek medical advice as soon as possible if you suspect you have contracted mpox. Your antenatal clinic can guide you on what steps to take next.

Symptoms of mpox in pregnancy

The symptoms of mpox during pregnancy are the same as they are for anyone who contracts the virus. They include:

Fever

Chills

Muscle aches

Fatigue

Swollen lymph nodes

Distinctive rash: This rash typically starts as small red spots and turns into raised bumps before forming blisters, and eventually scabs.

In some cases, the rash can be severe, especially if the infection is more widespread. The rash may become painful or cause significant discomfort, and it can last up to four weeks.

While the rash and flu-like symptoms can be unpleasant, the majority of people with mpox recover without needing any serious medical intervention. However, pregnant women should always seek advice from their antenatal care team as early as possible, as they will be able to monitor your health and the health of your baby throughout the process.

What should you do if you think you have mpox while pregnant?

If you’re pregnant and think you may have been exposed to mpox or are showing any of the symptoms, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s what you should do:

Contact your antenatal provider immediately: Whether you’re in the early or late stages of pregnancy, your antenatal clinic or GP is your first point of contact. They will be able to assess your symptoms and determine whether further testing for mpox is necessary.

Follow medical advice: Your doctor or midwife will provide you with guidance about what steps to take. This may include staying isolated to avoid passing the virus on to others, as well as potentially arranging for further antenatal scans or blood tests to monitor the health of your baby.

Get tested for mpox: If your healthcare provider suspects mpox, they may recommend that you undergo testing. This typically involves taking a sample from your skin lesions or other bodily fluids.

Monitor your symptoms: While you wait for results, pay close attention to your symptoms. If you develop any worsening of symptoms or notice any signs of complications, like severe pain, contractions, or unusual movements from your baby, seek immediate medical attention.

What treatments are available for mpox during pregnancy?

Currently, there are no specific antiviral treatments approved for mpox, but there are supportive measures that can help manage symptoms. Treatment typically focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Some options may include:

Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol can help alleviate discomfort from fever and body aches, but it’s always best to check with your antenatal care provider first to ensure the medication is safe during pregnancy.

Hydration and rest: It’s essential to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to help your body recover.

Isolation: To prevent the spread of mpox, you may be asked to stay away from others until you are no longer contagious, which typically happens when the rash has completely healed and scabs have fallen off.

While treatments are supportive rather than curative, monitoring your health closely with your antenatal support team is crucial.

Preventing mpox during pregnancy

As with any infection during pregnancy, prevention is key. While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of contracting mpox, there are a few things you can do to reduce your chances:

Avoid close contact with infected individuals: Mpox spreads through direct contact, so it’s important to avoid any physical contact with people who have symptoms.

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Stay informed: Keep up to date with public health guidelines regarding mpox. If there’s an outbreak in your area, follow any additional safety recommendations provided by the NHS or your local health authority.

While mpox (monkeypox) is a concerning infection, the risks to pregnant women are generally manageable with appropriate care and attention. If you suspect you’ve been exposed or are showing symptoms of mpox, don’t hesitate to reach out to your antenatal care provider. They can guide you through the next steps, help you stay safe, and ensure your baby remains healthy throughout your pregnancy.