Fever in pregnancy:Â
Fever in pregnancy is often a cause for concern for the pregnant woman because of the fear that it could cause harm to the unborn child, especially in the first months of pregnancy.
As you well know, the increase in body temperature is a defense mechanism of the body, which starts a process to fight viruses and bacteria.
It is possible that during pregnancy, especially in seasonal changes or due to a weakness in her defenses, the pregnant woman suffers an episode of the flu or cold.
High fever (more than 39 degrees) does not affect the development of the baby, it has even been ruled out that in the first trimester of pregnancy it produces malformations or is similar to spontaneous abortion. But what can influence it is the cause that causes this increase In temperature.
Therefore, it is important to be alert to some symptoms to rule out that the fever is the product of any complication in pregnancy.
Fever in pregnancy: warning signs
- Very high fever (over 39 degrees)
- Frequent vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Painful urination (could be a sign of a urine infection )
- Vaginal bleeding
- Loss of amniotic fluid
- Intense headache
- Loss of vaginal fluid
- Abdominal pain or uterine contractions
Faced with any of these symptoms, the pregnant woman should urgently see a doctor. If there is no clear reason that causes them, it could be a sign of serious diseases such as some type of infection or pre-eclampsia.
Read Also: What are the causes of prematurity?
How to treat fever in pregnancy
In any other situation, we use an antipyretic to lower the fever, but during pregnancy, we try to avoid taking drugs for fear that they could be harmful to the fetus.
Paracetamol is considered safer medicine to treat fever in pregnancy under medical prescription.
Although some studies have linked frequent intake of paracetamol with an increased risk of asthma in childhood, in recommended doses, it does not have harmful effects and is therefore not contraindicated during pregnancy.
Read Also: What is fetal distress and what are its causes?
Natural methods to lower fever
There are also alternative methods for drugs to lower body fever, such as:
- Take off excess clothing
- Take a shower of lukewarm water (one degree lower than body temperature)
- Drink plenty of water and fluids; it is important to stay hydrated
- Take foods rich in vitamin C (fruit juices), infusions, broths,
- Finally, rest and rest.
If the fever persists despite putting these remedies into practice, it is necessary to see a doctor.
Conclusion
Most of the time it is not usually more serious, it is usually caused by the seasonal flu or an imbalance of the immune system, however, fever should not be neglected in pregnancy as a complex infectious process can seriously compromise the fetus.