Congenital Cataracts

In rare cases, babies are born with cataracts. Mothers used to be concerned about getting German measles (rubella) during the first three months of pregnancy, since the disease could cause birth defects, including cataracts. Fortunately, now that children are routinely vaccinated against rubella, this risk has virtually disappeared in the United States. Other infections and certain medications early in pregnancy can still cause congenital cataracts, as can hereditary conditions. These cataracts might or might not cause vision problems. If they do, they are surgically treated in much the same way as are cataracts in adults.