“Is It Ok To Have A Fever During Pregnancy?”

Is It Ok To Have A Fever During Pregnancy?

Many women find they catch more colds and coughs during pregnancy. During each of my pregnancies I found my nose stuffier than normal on most days. This is natural as our body’s immune systems lower slightly during pregnancy to help our bodies more willingly accept and nurture the growing fetus within.

Many women are more susceptible however, to minor illnesses during pregnancy because of their lowered immune system. Fortunately there are some simple steps you can take to help boost you immune system during pregnancy. These include:

•  Eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and other whole foods to help nurture your body and growing body. Keep in mind most fruits contain plenty of vitamin C and other antioxidants. These valuable nutrients help ward off infections.
•  Consider taking a high quality prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement every day.
•  Keep your stress level to a minimum to help strengthen your immune system and help prevent infection.
•  Wash your hands often to help prevent the spread of infection.
•  Try to get as much sleep as possible, which will naturally boost your immune system and help you fight off infection.

What If I Get A Fever?
A minor fever during pregnancy is usually not cause for concern. A fever may accompany signs of the flu. You may for example have a fever with a headache, chills or fatigue. Your best bet if this happens is to drink plenty of fluids and remain hydrated. You should also try to get as much rest as possible.

The best medicine for combating flu during pregnancy is Tylenol. Most doctors will recommend a small dose of Tylenol, from 500 to 1 gram every four to six hours to help lower your fever.

If you contract a fever without symptoms of a cold or cough, your doctor may conduct a few tests to rule out other infections or illnesses, to ensure you are not developing a more serious infection.

There are some studies suggesting a fever more than 102 degrees Fahrenheit may be harmful for an unborn baby. Still other studies suggest after 16 weeks pregnancy most fetuses are immune from the ill effects of high fever during pregnancy. Nonetheless,  if you have a high fever you should consult your doctor immediately. Your doctor can recommend a safe and suitable treatment regimen and help rule out various infections leading to your illness.

When A Fever Is A Sign of More Serious Infection
Most times women will develop a minor fever during pregnancy as a side effect of a cold or the flu. This is nothing to be concerned about. Sometimes a fever may suggest a more serious illnesses however. A fever may for example, be a sign of a bacterial or kidney infection, especially when accompanied by pain in one side of the back, below the rib cage or when accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Any time  your fever is accompanied by nausea and vomiting during pregnancy you should consult with your doctor to help prevent dehydration. A fever near the time of delivery may signal some complication or may be a sign of fetal distress, therefore your doctor may check you closely.

The good news is most illnesses, even those needing medical attention, often resolve themselves in a few short days after treatment.

Keep in mind that your body temperature also increases naturally as you become pregnant. Most women will notice a small temperature change of up to 1 degree at or around the time they become pregnant. This is natural and should not alarm you in any way.