Having a fever in pregnancy can be alarming. You may ask yourself whether the health of your baby is at risk and whether you should seek medical assistance. It all depends on the cause, level and duration of the fever. There are some fevers that arise from minor infections, while other types require immediate treatment. This guide will provide information about the causes, symptoms, dangers and treatment of fever in pregnancy.
Dr. Deepti Asthana brings over 20+ years of clinical excellence, having successfully treated 30,000+ women and performed more than 10,000 complex gynecological surgeries. As a senior gynecologist and best pregnancy doctor in Gurgaon practicing at Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI). Dr. Deepti Asthana is widely trusted for pregnancy and high risk pregnancy treatment in Gurgaon. She is recognized as one of the leading experts for Pregnancy Treatment in Gurgaon and is considered among the Best obstetrician and gynecologist in Gurgaon for complicated pregnancy care.
What Is Fever During Pregnancy?
Your body during pregnancy might become more susceptible to some infections. When your body attacks an infection, it tends to heat up which results in fever. The common causes include influenza, UTI and infections.
Fever can be defined as body temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C). You may also experience chills and aches throughout your body.
A slight increase in temperature does not necessarily mean that a person has a fever. However, if you feel unwell, do not assume that the temperature is normal. Consult your gynecologist.
Mild Fever vs. High Fever in Pregnancy
The temperature levels can assist you know how to handle the situation. But remember that the symptoms and the reason for the fever also play an important role.
| Feature | Mild Fever | High Fever |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Below 100.4°F (38°C) | 100.4°F (38°C) or higher |
| Possible cause | May occur with minor infections | May occur with serious infections |
| Common symptoms | May cause mild tiredness or discomfort | May cause chills, body aches, and weakness |
| What to do | Monitor your temperature and symptoms | Contact your doctor promptly |
| When to seek help | Seek advice if symptoms persist or worsen | Needs prompt medical assessment during pregnancy |
In case you suffer from fever in pregnancy, consult a gynecologist or pregnancy doctor immediately. Even though your body temperature comes back to normal levels. You may still require an antibiotic treatment for the infection.
What Are the Causes of Fever in Pregnancy?
The causes of fever in pregnancy can vary. Some causes are less serious, but some causes require immediate medical intervention. Below are some common causes to consider.
1. Viral Infections: A viral infection is one of the main reasons for fever in pregnancy. Having a cold, for instance, or any other respiratory disease can raise one’s body temperature and result in throat pain, coughing, and general discomfort. Most viral infections tend to resolve without treatment. Nevertheless, if a pregnant woman has a fever, she should consult a pregnancy doctor.
2. Influenza (Flu): Flu can lead to Sudden fever, shivering, Headaches, muscle pain, Coughing and extreme fatigue. The flu virus during pregnancy can increase the risks of developing complications like pneumonia, among others. If you think you might be having the flu, then contact your doctor immediately.
3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs are common among pregnant women. Symptoms may include burning sensations during urination, increased frequency of urination or discomfort in the lower abdominal area. The condition sometimes extends to the kidneys. Fever, chills, pain in the back or side area, nausea and vomiting may occur. If there is an infection in the kidneys during pregnancy, it needs immediate treatment. Never neglect the presence of fever, with UTIs even when the pain is mild.
4. Stomach and Intestinal Infections: Contaminated food/water, containing dangerous microbes, is one of the causes of infections. It may cause fever, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and nausea. These signs of infection may be associated with dehydration because of inability to retain any liquid intake. You should visit your physician if you experience fever, recurrent vomiting and diarrhea.
5. Chorioamnionitis (Infection Around the Baby): Chorioamnionitis refers to infection that affects the membranes and fluid that surrounds the baby. It can either occur during pregnancy or delivery. The symptoms are fever, increased heart rate, uterine tenderness, and other infections. Sometimes, there might be abnormal vaginal discharge with a smell. It requires immediate medical attention.
6. Dengue and Other Mosquito-Borne Infections: Infections, spread through mosquito bites such as dengue or malaria infections, lead to fever. Symptoms of such infections can vary depending on the kind of infection.
Dengue can cause high fever, headache, pain at the back of the eyes, muscle pains, nausea, or rash. Complicated forms of dengue can even result in internal bleeding or shock.
Malaria can cause fever, chills, sweating, headache, and weakness. Seek medical help when you develop fever after being bitten by mosquitoes or after traveling to the infected regions.
7. Hepatitis E and Other Liver Infections: There are some liver infections which lead to fever, nausea, and weakness. Other symptoms include loss of appetite and yellowing of skin and eyes; this is called jaundice.Hepatitis E is a severe condition if you are pregnant. Seek immediate medical attention if your skin and eyes become yellow.
8. Infections Around the Respiratory Tract: Conditions such as pneumonia and coronavirus may lead to fever accompanied by cough, sore throat, muscle pains, or difficulty breathing. Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or sudden aggravation of the symptoms requires immediate medical attention.
9. Other Inflammatory Conditions or Medicine Reactions: Sometimes fever can also arise from inflammatory diseases and reactions to certain medicines. Such considerations can become relevant when common infections do not explain the cause of symptoms. Never discontinue taking prescribed medication or take any new medication without your doctor’s permission.
What Are the Signs of Fever in Pregnancy?
If there is fever in pregnancy, your body will start showing some signs. The symptoms can either be minor or could indicate an infection that requires medical attention. The following are symptoms to watch out for:
- Chills or shivering
- Sweating and warm skin
- Headache or dizziness
- Muscle and body aches
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- A faster heartbeat
- Feeling thirsty or having a dry mouth
- Passing less urine than usual
The symptoms can vary depending on what is causing the fever. For example: UTIs can cause burning sensations when urinating, while respiratory infections may lead to coughs or sore throats. If you are feeling ill, take your temperature using a digital thermometer. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulties breathing, severe abdominal pains, or a stiff neck.
What Are the Risks of Fever in Pregnancy?
A fever can impact each pregnancy differently. In some cases, it is relatively mild, whereas, in other cases, it requires treatment. Having a high fever and specific infections may raise the risk of complications both for the mother and child. The risk varies with how long your fever lasts and how far along you are in your pregnancy.
- Increased risk of neural tube defects in pregnant women with fever.
- Potential impact of fever on the developing baby.
- Increased risk of miscarriage associated with high fever.
- Increased risk of preterm delivery due to some infections.
- Connection between infections in pregnancy and low birth weight.
- Dehydration and weakness of the mother.
- Increased risk of complications due to untreated infections.
- Fast heart rate and breathing difficulties in severe cases.
- Risk of kidney infection when a UTI goes untreated.
Do not panic if you develop a fever, but do not delay getting medical advice.
Safe Methods for Managing Fever in Pregnancy
Following is a list of some safe remedies that could be useful in reducing fever:
- Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Eat easy-to-digest food.
- Ensure adequate rest and refrain from strenuous activities.
- Take a lukewarm bath if it makes you feel comfortable.
- Place a cool, damp cloth on your forehead.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid thick blankets.
- Consume warm soups to remain hydrated.
- Maintain a cool temperature in your room.
- Use a humidifier if you have a stuffy nose.
These methods can make you feel better; however, they are not useful in treating all causes of fever. Seek immediate medical assistance if your body temperature rises above 100.4°F (38°C).
Are There Safe Medications for Fever in Pregnancy?
There are medications that can help in reducing fever in pregnancy. However, the kind of medication varies depending on your condition and pregnancy level like fever in early pregnancy or fever during pregnancy third trimester. Make sure that you consult with your doctor before you take any medication.
Can I Take Paracetamol While Pregnant?
Paracetamol, which is also known as acetaminophen, can be taken when one needs to cure fever and pain while pregnant. Your doctor will advise whether it is safe for you and how much you should take.
Make sure that you use it only as prescribed by your healthcare provider for the shortest time possible.
Take note: Paracetamol can reduce your body temperature; however, it cannot address all the sources of the fever. If your body temperature is 100.4°F (38°C) or above during pregnancy, visit your doctor.
Which Medicines Should You Avoid?
Do not consume ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, or any other anti-inflammatory medication when experiencing fever in pregnancy, unless specifically prescribed by your doctor. The medications can be dangerous for the fetus at certain stages of pregnancy.
Also, do not consume antibiotics without a prescription, because the antibiotics are designed for the treatment of bacterial infections, while they cannot help with the viral ones.
Keep It in Mind: While medicines can reduce your body temperature, they might not cure the infection which caused it. Always visit your doctor if you get a fever during pregnancy, despite the improvement that occurred due to medication.
When Should You Consult a Pregnancy Doctor for Fever During Pregnancy?
The following are some situations when you should see a doctor if you have a fever during pregnancy:
- Temperature goes above 100.4°F (38°C)
- Feeling chills or body aches with a fever
- Feeling burning sensation during urination
- Having back and side pains with fever
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Rashes or a bad headache
- Worsening of symptoms
- Having a fever after exposure to dengue, malaria or any other infection
- Your eyes or skin have turned yellowish
When is It an Emergency Situation?
If you experience:
- Trouble breathing or chest pain
- Confusion, unconsciousness, or weakness
- Pain in your abdomen
- A very bad headache with a stiff neck
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or fluids coming out of the vagina
- A reduction in fetal movement after establishing a regular pattern
- Symptoms of severe dehydration, including minimal urination and dizziness
You need to go to the emergency department or an urgent care clinic.
How Doctors Check Fever During Pregnancy?
Your pregnancy doctor will first ask about your symptoms. How long you have had the fever and how many weeks pregnant you are. Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may recommend:
- Blood Tests: To determine if there is an infection.
- Urine Tests: To determine UTIs or kidney infections.
- Respiratory Tests: To determine influenza or coronavirus.
- Dengue or Malaria Tests: If required.
- Others: Depending on your symptoms.
The pregnancy doctor can also assess the health of your baby, depending on the gestational age.
How Can You Prevent Fever in Pregnancy?
There are no sure ways to protect yourself from all infections, however, by following these simple measures, you can ensure your protection from fever or infections during pregnancy:
- Regular hand washing and keeping food clean.
- Drinking clean water and eating fresh-cooked food only.
- Not consuming raw meats, eggs, seafood or unpasteurized milk.
- Proper storage and timely refrigeration of foods.
- Protection against mosquito bites through screens, covering up and eliminating standing water.
- Consult your physician on safe insect repellants to use in pregnancy.
- Refrain from contacting sick individuals and ensuring good ventilation in your rooms.
Fevers in pregnancy are quite common, but this condition must never be taken lightly. Being aware of the potential triggers and symptoms of a fever can ensure that you get timely treatment. You can try rest and fluids for mild fevers but high or persistent fever requires medical consultation. Never resort to any medication without the prescription of a pregnancy doctor. If you develop a fever during pregnancy or experience any other abnormal symptom. You should consult a pregnancy doctor immediately. To seek treatment, visit Dr. Deepti Asthana at Fortis hospital, Gurgaon.
FAQs
Q1. Fever In Early Pregnancy?
Feeling feverish or increased body temperature in early pregnancy can happen due to higher progesterone levels. But a fever starts at 100.4°F (38°C).
Q2. Fever During Pregnancy First Trimester?
Feeling feverish or increased body temperature during pregnancy first trimester, can happen it requires prompt medical evaluation to protect both you and your developing child.
Q3. Is fever an early sign of pregnancy?
No. Fever is not one of the common first signs of pregnancy. Fever may indicate either an infection or some other disease. In case you suspect pregnancy, have a pregnancy test done and consult your doctor concerning fever.
Q4. What temperature is considered a fever during pregnancy?
Any temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) marks fever. You need to seek medical advice from your doctor immediately once your temperature rises up to this point during pregnancy.
Q5. Does fever affect the baby in pregnancy?
Not all fevers are harmful for the baby. But sometimes fever accompanied by certain infections and a high body temperature can pose danger.
Q6. Is fever dangerous during the first trimester?
A high fever during early pregnancy needs prompt attention because this is an important stage of the baby's development. Some studies link significant fever during early pregnancy with a higher risk of certain birth defects. However, having a fever does not mean that a birth defect will occur.
Q7. Can I take paracetamol during pregnancy?
Paracetamol can help reduce fever during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to determine the proper dosage. Do not take any other medications containing paracetamol without consulting your doctor.
Q8. How can I prevent fever during pregnancy?
Hand washing, safe drinking water, and properly cooked food are important. Stay away from sick people and use mosquito repellent safe for pregnant women. Consult your physician on vaccines required during pregnancy.
Q9. Can a UTI cause fever during pregnancy?
Yes. A UTI that spreads to the kidneys can cause fever, chills, back or side pain, nausea and vomiting. Contact your doctor promptly if you have fever with urinary symptoms because a kidney infection needs medical treatment.
Q10. Can fever lead to miscarriage or premature labor?
Certain fevers and infections may increase the likelihood of complications. Nevertheless, fever does not always result in miscarriage or early labor. Consult a physician to decrease the risk.
Written and Verified by:
Dr. Deepti Asthana
Dr. Deepti Asthana is a leading obstetrician & gynecologist, laparoscopic surgeon in Gurgaon, Delhi NCR, backed by over 20+ years of clinical excellence. Having treated more than 30,000 patients and successfully performed over 10,000 complex gynecological surgeries.
She is widely trusted for comprehensive women's healthcare. Dr. Deepti Asthana specializes in managing all major female health conditions, ranging from normal deliveries and high-risk Caesarean births, high risk pregnancy to advanced minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic hysterectomy, laparoscopic endometriosis surgery, ovarian cyst removal, and uterine fibroid treatment.
Her patient-first philosophy, individualized treatment protocols, and expertise in modern surgical techniques make her a top choice Best Pregnancy Doctor in Gurgaon.
