Measles Infection Leads to Life-Changing Pregnancy After Contraceptive Patch Removal
A woman from the West Midlands experienced a shocking turn of events after contracting measles, a disease she associated with Victorian-era children, which ultimately led to an unexpected pregnancy. Jayne Walmsley, a 37-year-old carer and artist, developed a severe rash that spread rapidly across her body, forcing her to remove her contraceptive patch and resulting in the birth of her son, Jude.
Severe Rash and Hospital Diagnosis
Jayne first noticed spots on her face in mid-April 2024, initially suspecting chickenpox or an allergic reaction to cleaning products. However, the rash tripled in size daily, becoming so severe that she resembled a "tomato" with skin appearing like chemical burns. Despite being vaccinated as a child, she was diagnosed with measles at A&E, where medical staff were shocked by the intensity of her symptoms.
"I couldn't believe it," Jayne said. "Measles in this day and age? I was so shocked that at 35, I had measles. I thought this was only something Victorian kids had to deal with."
Contraceptive Patch Removal and Pregnancy Discovery
The measles rash accumulated under Jayne's contraceptive patch, creating a large, irritated lump. Medical professionals advised her to remove the patch and use alternative contraception during her recovery. Jayne followed this advice but did not replace the patch during her nearly two-month isolation period.
In early July, Jayne discovered she was pregnant after her period was late. "I couldn't believe it – I did so many tests because it wouldn't sink in," she explained. Despite having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and being 37, she conceived quickly, which surprised her and her fiancé as they had planned for children in the future but not that year.
Recovery and Birth of Son Jude
Jayne's pregnancy was initially anxiety-ridden due to concerns about measles affecting fetal development. A private scan at seven weeks confirmed everything was normal, easing her worries. She gave birth to her son, Jude, in March 2025, describing him as "absolutely perfect" and a "beautiful reward" after her ordeal.
Nearly two years later, Jayne still bears some scarring and blotchy patches from the measles rash. She emphasizes the importance of vaccination, noting that her childhood immunization likely prevented more severe complications.
Public Health Warning
Jayne is now speaking out to raise awareness about measles resurgence. "What I want people to realise is that this disease is back, it's real, and it's not just children that get it," she stated. She plans to vaccinate her son and urges others to do their part in maintaining herd immunity.
"If everyone is vaccinated, it lowers the risk of this type of thing happening to others and protects them if they get it," Jayne concluded. "Measles is back, and it's brutal."
