Monthly Archives: June 2017

Ask the Midwife - Zika Virus Q:I planned a trip to a beachside resort in Mexico a few months ago and just now found out that I am pregnant.  My mom said it isn’t safe for me to go because of Zika virus, but I already paid for the trip. What should I do? A:Congratulations on your pregnancy!  Our primary goal is for you to have a healthy pregnancy as well as a safe and happy outcome for you and your baby.  Zika virus is a serious concern in pregnancy.   This disease is spread by the bite of 2 types infected mosquitoes, as well as through sexual contact.  The virus can cause severe birth defects of the brain in the developing fetus, as well as miscarriage, stillbirth and a disease of the nervous system called Guillain-Barre syndrome.  Unfortunately at this time, there is no vaccination against Zika.  The CDC recommends that all pregnant women avoid travel to areas of the world where Zika is being transmitted.  If travel is unavoidable, steps must be taken to minimize the risk of being infected with the virus.  If you travel to an area that is known for Zika transmission, your provider will arrange for testing for the virus one or more times during your pregnancy, and will advise you to refrain from sexual intercourse during your pregnancy. Areas of the world that are known to present a risk of Zika virus transmission include: Mexico; the Caribbean (including but not limited to [...]