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Rubella (German Measles) Antibody Screening in Pregnancy (IgM)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for rubella (German measles) antibodies in your blood to determine if you have immunity or if you may have been exposed to the virus during pregnancy.

Quick summary

["Knowing your rubella status helps protect your baby from serious birth defects if you’re unprotected."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85716-9
Short code
Rubella-like illness dur preg Mother
Synonyms
Rubella-like illness dur preg Mother
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86592
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters During Pregnancy

Rubella is a viral infection that can cause severe birth defects if a pregnant person is exposed and has no immunity. This test specifically looks for IgM antibodies, which appear shortly after infection. If you test positive, it suggests recent exposure or infection, which may require further evaluation or treatment.

What the Test Measures

The test detects IgM antibodies against rubella. These antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to rubella infection. They appear early in the illness and can help identify if you’ve been recently exposed or infected.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure the presence of IgM antibodies. The result helps determine if you have rubella immunity or if you may have been recently exposed.

What the Results Mean

A positive result for rubella IgM antibodies suggests recent infection or exposure. A negative result means you either have immunity (from a previous vaccination or infection) or no immunity at this time. Your healthcare provider will discuss next steps based on your result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Rubella IgM Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive rubella IgM test mean for my baby?
A positive IgM test indicates recent rubella infection, which can pose risks to your baby. If confirmed, your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing or monitoring to ensure your baby’s health. Vaccination or immune globulin treatment may be advised if exposure is suspected.
Can I still get rubella if I’ve never been vaccinated or exposed before?
Yes, if you’ve never been vaccinated or had rubella before, you may be at risk of infection. This test helps identify if you lack immunity, allowing your provider to recommend vaccination (MMR vaccine) to protect you and your baby.
How often should I get this test during pregnancy?
This test is typically performed early in pregnancy to check for immunity. If your result is negative, your provider may recommend vaccination after delivery or during a planned pregnancy. Follow-up testing may not always be needed unless there’s a suspected exposure.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy