Fever During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks, and Treatment

1. Causes of Fever During Pregnancy

Fever is the body’s natural response to infections. During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system undergoes changes, making her more susceptible to infections that can lead to fever. Common causes of fever during pregnancy include:

• Bacterial or Viral Infections: Illnesses such as the flu, sore throat, pneumonia, or urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause fever.
• Gastrointestinal Infections: Food poisoning or bacterial infections in the digestive system may lead to fever, accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): A common condition during pregnancy, UTIs can cause fever if the infection spreads to the kidneys.
• Chorioamnionitis: A serious infection of the amniotic sac that can cause high fever, abdominal pain, and preterm labor.
• Other Medical Conditions: Fever can also result from parasitic infections, dengue fever, or reactions to vaccinations.

2. How Fever Affects the Baby During Pregnancy

The impact of fever on the baby depends on its severity, duration, and underlying cause. Risks include:

• First Trimester: High fever (above 38.5°C/101.3°F) during the first trimester may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly neural tube defects, which can affect the baby’s brain and spinal cord development.
• Second and Third Trimesters: Prolonged fever can reduce blood flow to the baby, increasing the risk of preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, or even stillbirth if the fever is due to a severe infection.
• Increased Fetal Heart Rate: A mother’s fever can raise the baby’s heart rate, leading to potential distress.

3. How to Manage Fever During Pregnancy

If you experience fever during pregnancy, follow these steps to lower your temperature safely and reduce risks to your baby:

• Monitor Your Temperature Regularly: If your fever is below 38°C (100.4°F), you can manage it at home. However, if it exceeds 38.5°C (101.3°F) or lasts for more than 24 hours, seek medical attention immediately.
• Stay Hydrated: Fever causes fluid loss, so drink plenty of water, juice, or electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated.
• Apply a Warm Compress: Use a warm, damp cloth on your forehead, armpits, and groin to help lower your body temperature. Avoid using cold compresses, as they can cause blood vessel constriction and worsen the fever.
• Wear Light Clothing: Avoid heavy clothing or thick blankets that can trap heat and raise your body temperature.
• Take Fever-Reducing Medication Safely: Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is generally safe for pregnant women but should be taken under medical guidance. Avoid Ibuprofen or Aspirin, as they may harm the baby.
• Seek Medical Attention for Severe Symptoms: If fever is accompanied by severe headache, persistent vomiting, rash, difficulty breathing, or abdominal pain, visit a doctor immediately.

4. How to Prevent Fever During Pregnancy

To reduce the risk of fever, pregnant women should:

• Strengthen Their Immune System: Eat a balanced diet, take prenatal vitamins, drink enough water, and get plenty of rest.
• Avoid Exposure to Infections: Stay away from crowded places, wear a mask in public, and wash hands frequently with soap or sanitizer.
• Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations: Vaccines such as flu and rubella shots before pregnancy can help prevent infections.
• Maintain Good Hygiene and Food Safety: Eat thoroughly cooked food, avoid raw or undercooked meat, and drink boiled or filtered water to prevent foodborne illnesses.

5. Conclusion

Fever during pregnancy can be concerning, especially if it is high or prolonged. However, with early detection and proper management, the risks to the baby can be minimized. Pregnant women should monitor their health closely, practice preventive measures, and seek medical care when needed to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.