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Complications of Rubella

If a pregnant woman who is not immune comes into contact with the rubella virus, her baby can be seriously affected. This is especially the case in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. The virus can lead miscarriage, stillbirth or a range of birth defects including deafness, mental retardation, heart defects and cataracts.

If you do come into contact with rubella and you have any of the symptoms such as a rash you should see your GP. They will be able to diagnose rubella and may offer you a test to see if your baby has been affected. If this is the case, you will be encouraged to have some counselling and talk to you GP, nurse or midwife and your partner. There are a number of options available to parents who are expecting a baby affected by rubella.

• RabiesRadiationRadiotherapyRaynaud's phenomenonRectal examinationRed blood countReiter's syndromeRelapsing feverRenin testRepetitive strain injuryRespiratory distress syndromeRespiratory tract infectionRespite careRestless leg syndromeRestricted growthRetinal detachmentReye's syndromeRhesus factor diseaseRheumatic feverRheumatoid arthritisRhinitisRicketsRingwormRisks and benefits of treatmentRoot canal treatmentRosaceaRoundwormRubella

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