Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Causes, Symptoms, and Pregnancy Risks

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) affects 50.4% of people globally, often remaining dormant but reactivating in pregnancy. It spreads via bodily fluids and can cause congenital infections in 1 in 200 babies, with 20% experiencing hearing loss or developmental delays.

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Key Takeaways

How CMV Spreads: Transmission Through Bodily Fluids

CMV is transmitted through close contact with blood, saliva, urine, or breast milk. The virus remains dormant in the body after initial infection, with reactivation risks during pregnancy or immune compromise.

Pregnancy Risks for CMV-Negative Women

Women who contract CMV for the first time during pregnancy face a 30-40% risk of passing it to their fetus, compared to only 1-2% for those who tested positive pre-pregnancy.

Congenital CMV Effects: Hearing Loss and Developmental Delays

Approximately 1 in 5 babies with congenital CMV experience complications including hearing loss, cerebral palsy, and low birthweight, even if symptoms aren’t immediately apparent.

Sperm Donor Selection and CMV Status

CMV-negative women are advised to use CMV-negative sperm donors to minimize fetal risks. Positive women can use either donor type, though transmission risks remain low.

CMV Reactivation During Pregnancy

While low-risk, existing CMV infections can reactivate during pregnancy, potentially infecting the fetus through the placenta. Regular monitoring is recommended for high-risk cases.

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