This blood test can tell whether you’ve had the German Measles (Rubella), a disease that is highly dangerous for the fetus and the mother.
Even if you had a MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccination as a child, its effects may have worn off. The best time to be tested is before you become pregnant (see pre-conception counseling). However if you have not had this test, it will be done at your first or second pregnancy visit. If you are pregnant when you have the rubella test, and the result of test shows that you are not immune to Rubella, you cannot be given the immunization during pregnancy, for it could harm the pregnancy. In that case, you will be immunized after you give birth.However, if we know you are susceptible to rubella, you can limit your exposure to high-risk sources, such as children who might contract it. Definitely stay far away from anyone you know who has an outbreak of the virus.
Why it’s important: If a woman gets the infection while pregnant, she could transmit the virus to her baby. The virus could increase the baby’s risk of congenital anomalies, preterm labor issues, and severe medical complications.
