Hi Steph,

I found your post because I am in the same position as you (at the time of your post). I have recently had parvovirus, and am a little worried about the implications for my bub. I am pretty sure I had it just prior to conception, so fingers crossed it is all okay. Apparently it doesn't cause birth defects, but it can cause a serious condition in the fetus called "fetal hydrops" which is basically a form of fetal anaemia. This condition can be seen by ultrasound (fluid around the fetal heart etc). Apparently about 10% of women with an active infection during the first 20 weeks will miscarry, but I read that as 90% of bubs are fine For those babies that remain, 3% will go on to develop fetal hydrops and this can be treated by fetal transfusion. It is terribly scary sounding, but the good news is that babies who survive the ordeal will go on to be fine with no ongoing problems. They may be a little more wrinkly than usual at birth (excess skin)...but this resolves itself in time. I hope all is well with you and your bub. I'm nearly 6 weeks now. Let me know how you got on...