Rubella (German measles) antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test measures antibodies against rubella. IgG shows immunity from vaccination or past infection; IgM can suggest a recent infection. Doctors usually order IgG before pregnancy or IVF to check immunity, and IgM when a rash or contact with rubella is a concern in pregnancy.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careRubella in early pregnancy can cause serious birth defects, so women without immunity are usually offered the vaccine before trying to conceive.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms whether IgG, IgM or both are needed
- 2A vein inside your elbow is cleaned
- 3A needle collects a tube of blood
- 4The lab measures rubella IgG and or IgM antibodies
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive IgG usually means you are protected; a positive IgM needs careful follow-up with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive IgG usually means you are protected from rubella. A positive IgM can suggest a recent infection but can also be falsely positive, so in pregnancy it needs careful follow-up with extra tests.
Who usually has this test
Women planning pregnancy or IVF, pregnant women exposed to a rash illness, and some health workers.
Risks and aftercare
No special aftercare; if you are not immune, ask about the MMR vaccine before pregnancy.
Names and options
Also called: rubella IgG, rubella IgM, German measles test, rubella immunity test
Options
- IgG
- IgM
Listed by the hospital as
- RUBELLA - IGG ANTIBODY, SERUM
- RUBELLA - IGM ANTIBODY, SERUM
Where this test fits in fertility care
- 1Fertility work-up
- 2Screening before IVF or IUIThis test
- 3During treatment
- 4After embryo transfer
- 5Pregnancy check-ups
- 6If treatment has not worked
The usual order. See every test at each stage →
Questions about this test
Why check rubella immunity before IVF?
Rubella infection in early pregnancy can cause serious harm to the baby. If you are not immune, your doctor can offer the MMR vaccine and advise you to avoid pregnancy for a month afterwards.
Can I get the rubella vaccine during IVF or pregnancy?
The MMR vaccine is a live vaccine, so it is not given in pregnancy. Doctors usually advise avoiding pregnancy for about a month after it, so it is usually planned before IVF starts.
I had the vaccine as a child. Why is my rubella IgG low?
Antibody levels can fall over time or the vaccine may not have worked fully. Your doctor may suggest a repeat dose before pregnancy.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.