Fever During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks, and Safe Management

Fever During Pregnancy: An Essential Guide

Experiencing a fever during pregnancy can provoke anxiety for expectant mothers. While mild fevers are common and often harmless, persistent or high temperatures may signify underlying issues that require prompt attention. Understanding the causes, risks, safe treatment methods, and when to seek medical help is crucial for the well-being of both mother and baby.

What is Fever During Pregnancy?

A fever is typically defined as a temporary increase in body temperature above the normal range. In adults, a temperature exceeding 100.4°F (38°C) is considered a fever, while a body temperature around 98.6°F (37°C) is generally normal. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and a slightly elevated basal temperature are expected, but a genuine fever may signal infection or other health challenges that need evaluation.

Main Causes of Fever During Pregnancy

Fever during pregnancy can result from a range of causes, from mild viral illnesses to potentially serious infections. The main causes include:

• Common Cold and Influenza (Flu): Viral infections that frequently cause fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat, and body aches. The immune system is naturally altered during pregnancy, making women more susceptible to such infections.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs are especially common during pregnancy due to anatomical and hormonal changes that favor bacterial growth in the urinary tract. Symptoms may include painful urination, urgency, back pain, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine along with fever.
• Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis): Viral or bacterial infections of the gut often manifest as fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can increase the risk of dehydration, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.
• Respiratory Infections (e.g., Pneumonia, Tonsillitis): These infections can cause high fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and malaise.
• Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis): A progression from UTIs, kidney infections may cause severe fever, back pain, chills, and can quickly become dangerous during pregnancy.
• Food Poisoning: Consuming contaminated food can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and fever, increasing dehydration risks.
• Certain Other Infections: Such as chickenpox, dengue, or even COVID-19 may present with fever during pregnancy.

Symptoms That Often Accompany Fever

Aside from the elevated temperature, fever during pregnancy may come with other symptoms depending on the root cause:

• Chills or shivering
• Body aches and fatigue
• Headache or intense headache
• Sore throat or cough
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Vaginal bleeding or abnormal discharge
• Loss of amniotic fluid (“water breaking”)
• Lightheadedness or fainting

It is important to monitor these symptoms and inform your doctor if any are present, especially if severe or persistent.

Potential Risks of Fever During Pregnancy

Mild fevers are usually not dangerous, but persistent or high fevers—especially those above 102ºF (39ºC)—require immediate attention, as they can pose risks to the developing baby and to maternal health.

Fever caused by infection (rather than the high temperature alone) is usually the key risk to the fetus. Timely diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause is critical.

How to Take Care of Fever During Pregnancy

First Steps and Home Care

If you experience a mild fever during pregnancy, you can take several steps at home to reduce your temperature and feel more comfortable:

• Rest as much as possible to support your immune response.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, juices, clear broths, or electrolyte drinks, especially if you have vomiting or diarrhea.
• Use a cool, damp washcloth on your forehead, neck, and armpits to help bring down your temperature.
• Wear light and comfortable clothing and avoid heavy blankets while sleeping.
• Avoid self-medication with herbal remedies or over-the-counter supplements unless prescribed by your doctor; many are not proven safe in pregnancy.

Medications: What is Safe and What to Avoid

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): The only fever-reducing medication generally considered safe during pregnancy when taken as directed. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid exceeding recommended doses.
• Ibuprofen and Aspirin: These medications are not recommended during pregnancy, as they have been associated with pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes.
• Other Medications & Herbal Treatments: Do not use herbal teas or medications without prior medical approval. Some herbal remedies can encourage contractions or present other risks.

When Should You Contact Your Doctor?

You should call your healthcare provider or seek medical attention if:

• Your temperature is at or above 102°F (39°C) or rises suddenly
• Fever persists for more than 24 hours or does not respond to acetaminophen
• You notice additional symptoms such as:
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Severe headache, neck stiffness, or confusion
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Abdominal pain or contractions
• Decreased fetal movement
• Vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Loss of amniotic fluid
• Pain or burning when urinating

Diagnosis: How Is the Cause Determined?

Your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood tests to check for infection or inflammation
• Urine tests to detect urinary tract infections
• Swabs from the throat, nose, or other suspected sources of infection
• Imaging, such as ultrasound, if indicated for abdominal or kidney pain
• COVID-19 or influenza testing, especially during outbreaks

The treatment plan will be based on the underlying diagnosis, and may include antibiotics (for bacterial infections), antivirals, or supportive care as needed.

Safe Home Remedies: What Can You Do?

In addition to medications, some home measures may help relieve fever symptoms. However, always consult your doctor before starting any home remedy, especially herbal teas, as some can be unsafe. Safe options may include:

• Drinking warm (not hot) fluids such as chamomile tea (in moderation, and only if cleared by your physician; some herbs are contraindicated in pregnancy)
• Eating light meals and easy-to-digest foods to maintain energy
• Maintaining a cool, comfortable environment
• Avoiding sauna, hot baths, or hot tubs, as overheating can be harmful in pregnancy

If you struggle with maintaining adequate fluids because of vomiting or diarrhea, try small sips of water or oral rehydration solutions until you can hold down more.

Prevention: How Can You Reduce the Risk?

While not all fevers can be prevented, certain measures can help lower your risk of contracting infections or developing complications during pregnancy:

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly
• Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick
• Receive recommended vaccinations, such as the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines (check eligibility with your healthcare provider)
• Practice safe food handling and avoid undercooked foods
• Stay hydrated and maintain good nutrition
• Attend all scheduled prenatal checkups for early detection of any problems

Impact on Baby: Should You Be Concerned?

Many mothers worry about the effect of fever on their unborn child. While mild, short-term fevers are unlikely to cause harm, high or persistent fever—especially in the first trimester—may increase the risk of certain birth defects or pregnancy complications. However, with prompt medical care and management of both the fever and its cause, serious outcomes can often be avoided. Always consult your doctor with any concerns about your fever or the health of your developing baby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How high is too high for a fever during pregnancy?

A: Temperatures at or above 102°F (39°C) are considered high and require immediate medical attention, especially if sustained or accompanied by other symptoms.

Q: Is it safe to take acetaminophen for fever while pregnant?

A: Yes, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally regarded as the safest medication for reducing fever during pregnancy when taken as directed by your doctor.

Q: Can fever harm my unborn baby?

A: Persistent or high fever may increase the risk of complications, particularly in the first trimester, but the underlying infection is often the main concern. Quick diagnosis and treatment minimize most risks.

Q: When should I call my doctor about a fever during pregnancy?

A: Contact your doctor if your temperature is 102°F (39°C) or higher, does not come down with acetaminophen, or is accompanied by severe symptoms like vomiting, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, or decreased fetal movements.

Q: Are herbal teas and home remedies safe for fever in pregnancy?

A: Most herbal teas and home remedies are not recommended without medical approval, as they may be unsafe for pregnant women. Always consult your healthcare provider.

Q: Can I prevent fever during pregnancy?

A: Preventing all fevers is impossible, but good hygiene, vaccinations, and proper nutrition can lower your risk of infection and related fever episodes during pregnancy.

Q: What foods and drinks should I prefer when I have a fever while pregnant?

A: Focus on staying hydrated with water, clear soups, and electrolyte solutions. Eat light, nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, rice, toast, and broths as tolerated.

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

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