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It is not known whether the risks of getting infected with Zika while you're pregnant are higher in one trimester of pregnancy than others. Scientists who are looking at children with microcephaly believe that earlier stages of pregnancy -- earlier trimesters -- are probably riskier than later trimesters, but it is not known for sure.
If you are pregnant and your partner has traveled to an area with Zika virus, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is that you either abstain or practice absolutely safe sex for the duration of the pregnancy, because it is simply not known for sure what is the riskiest stage.
If you are pregnant and your partner has traveled to an area with Zika virus, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is that you either abstain or practice absolutely safe sex for the duration of the pregnancy, because it is simply not known for sure what is the riskiest stage.
Women in the U.S. are not more susceptible to getting the Zika virus if they're pregnant, but there are concerns about the effects of the virus. Watch OB/GYN Kelli Culpepper, MD, of Medical City Dallas Hospital, describes the birth defect risks.
Continue Learning about Zika Virus
Zika Virus
Zika virus is a tropical disease that is spread by Aedes species of mosquitoes. Until 2015, the virus was limited to small outbreaks in regions of Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands. Mosquitoes can pick up the virus by biting an ...
n infected person, and then transmit it to someone else they bite later. The virus doesn’t generally spread from person to person directly, though sexual transmission is possible.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.