Final answer:
During the first trimester, a maternal rubella infection can lead to severe birth defects or loss of pregnancy, known as congenital rubella syndrome. Early prenatal screening is vital to identify and manage the infection to mitigate risks to the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a maternal rubella infection occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy, it can have severe implications for the developing fetus. The rubella virus is teratogenic, posing a serious threat to fetal development. During the critical first 11 weeks of pregnancy, there is a high risk of stillbirth, spontaneous abortion, or the infant being born with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). CRS can result in a diversity of severe birth defects, including heart defects, microcephaly, vision and hearing issues, cognitive deficits, and damage to the liver and spleen. After the 16th week, the risk of severe defects decreases significantly.
Due to these potential outcomes, prenatal screening for rubella is standard in many countries to mitigate the risk of congenital infection. Identification of a rubella infection early in pregnancy is crucial, as it enables healthcare providers to closely monitor the pregnancy and prepare for any potential complications associated with CRS.