There are many causes for itching during pregnancy and dry skin is one of the major causes. As skin stretches to accommodate the growing fetus, it becomes thinner and drier. But occasionally, it may be more than just dry skin and irritation causing discomfort. Fifth Disease is one potential cause of itching and rough, red, patchy skin.
Fifth Disease is a virus caused by the parvovirus B19 (not the same parvovirus that affects animals) and it can affect any person at any age. It is called Fifth Disease because it was the fifth disease in the series of childhood diseases to be discovered. It is not as well-known as measles and chicken pox but it can be uncomfortable and potentially concerning during pregnancy.
How it Starts
Fifth Disease may start as a cold and then a rash begins to develop on the face and extremities. The rash on the face often appears as though the person has been slapped and some people refer to it as Slapped Face Disease. Over a period of one to three weeks, the rash slowly spreads to other parts of the body and the itching and skin irritation can become extremely uncomfortable.
Pregnant women often contract the disease from their children if they already have younger children. Teachers, doctors, and nurses are also more often exposed to Fifth Disease during pregnancy. Depending on the stage of pregnancy and the severity of the disease, some obstetricians take a heightened approach to prenatal management.
Fifth Disease and Pregnancy
First and foremost, it is important to understand that most women experience no serious complications or problems if they are exposed to or contract the virus. Fortunately, over half of pregnant women are immune to the virus and many more never experience any major symptoms of being exposed or contracting the disease. Many probably don’t even know they have encountered the disease. However, a very few pregnant women may encounter potential risks to the baby if they contract Fifth Disease, and it’s important to seek a doctor’s advice if you believe you have been exposed.
The primary risk for the unborn baby is anemia that results from the virus. It is higher risk for women in their first trimester of pregnancy. Risks are lower beyond the first trimester. The good news is that the disease has not been proven to cause any type of birth defects or other health risks to the baby.
What to Expect if You Have Fifth Disease
Only a qualified doctor can properly diagnose the condition so it’s critical to seek early care by a qualified obstetrician or healthcare provider. Healthcare providers will conduct a blood test to determine whether or not the parvovirus is present or not. This is a very simple blood test that presents no risk to the mother or the unborn baby.
If a woman is diagnosed with Fifth Disease, healthcare providers will usually monitor the pregnancy more closely, especially if the woman is in the early weeks or months of pregnancy. That may include more frequent physician visits, an increased number of ultrasounds, and other potential preventive tests as prescribed by the personal physician. There are some very specific indicators that are monitored that will enable the doctor to take proactive steps, if needed, to provide optimal care for mother and baby.
Fifth Disease is not likely to cause complications or problems with pregnancy, however, only a qualified doctor should make that determination for each individual case. If the virus does present potential problems, early intervention and closer monitoring are usually all that are needed. Remember that the chance of Fifth Disease causing problems is very small. The best thing any pregnant woman can do is avoid the disease by washing her hands frequently and avoiding situations where there is an outbreak of the disease.
If you are ever concerned about your health or the health of your unborn child, don’t hesitate to contact your personal healthcare provider. Preventive care is one of the essential keys to a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Then, sit back, relax, and enjoy this special time while nurturing a growing baby.
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