What is CMV?

CMV (human cytomegalovirus) belongs to the herpesvirus family. Most people will get infected with CMV at some point in their lives. CMV remains latent in the body where it can be reactivated, or you can get reinfected. It is transmitted through bodily fluids – for instance through kissing or having sex. It is not possible to vaccinate against CMV.

CMV-negative women are at higher risk of contracting the infection during pregnancy. If infected, there is also a small risk that the woman can pass CMV to her baby during pregnancy. This is known as congenital CMV.About one in 200 babies is born with a congenital CMV infection. However, only about one in five babies with congenital CMV infection will be sick from the virus or have long-term health problems.

Even though the risk of contracting CMV from donor sperm is considered extremely low, especially CMV-negative women may prefer sperm from CMV-negative donors, which can be checked at the sperm bank. However, we recommend that you consult with your doctor before deciding whether to include this aspect in your donor choice.