Most of the time the fevers could be due to some infection like an upper respiratory infection or a urinary tract infection and may clear with paracetamol and some antibiotics, and may not cause any problems to the pregnancy or the baby. The key is in identifying the cause of the fever. Fevers early in pregnancy may be linked to birth defects, like neural tube defects, and other problems in the baby. Birth defects can cause problems in the overall health of the baby. Neural tube defects are birth defects of the brain and spinal cord.
Apart from an increase in the body temperature, other signs and symptoms may accompany fever and these may include:
Sweating
Chills and shivering
Headache
Muscle aches
Loss of appetite
Irritability
Dehydration
General weakness
What is the treatment?
If a woman is pregnant and she has a fever, it is very important to contact your Doctor. The Doctor will examine you and may be able to determine the cause of the fever and decide if you need any additional testing to be done at this point. Most pregnant women can take acetaminophen like Crocin but always check with your Doctor before you take any medication.
How do you Prevent getting infections?
Here are some tips that you can take that may reduce your chances of getting sick:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Wash hands before preparing or eating food, after handling vegetables. Wash the vegetables before cooking.
- Wash your hands them after being around pets or animals
- Get your vaccination done. Vaccinations can help protect you and your baby from certain infections during pregnancy.
- Try to avoid people who are sick. If you are sick, stay home. Don’t share your dishes, glasses, utensils or toothbrush.
- And avoid raw meat, fish, eggs and street food to prevent food poisoning.
Above are some tips to reduce the chances of infection. But if you have a fever and you are also pregnant, please make sure you contact your Doctor and make sure that you get the treatment you need to help you to start feeling better.
