If you are running a fever during your pregnancy, your body is building a normal defense mechanism against a possible infection. However, an extended or prolonged fever can have damaging effects on you and the baby during pregnancy if it is not treated. Experiencing a fever during pregnancy has the same ordinary symptoms that include high temperature, sweating, shivering, headache, muscle aches, dehydration and fatigue. Fevers during pregnancy can be caused by the common cold, flu, urinary tract infections, and other infections that your body may be battling.
When you’re pregnant, your immune system is fighting extra hard to protect you and the baby, and so you might be more susceptible to illness and fevers during this time. If you’re experiencing a fever during pregnancy, there are many ways to treat it and help reduce its effects.
1. Tylenol
Since Tylenol is perfectly safe to take while you’re pregnant, taking the correct dosage of Tylenol can help reduce fevers. Make sure you stay away from aspirin and ibuprofen, as it is not advisable to take these kinds of medicine while pregnant because it can affect the baby’s cardiovascular system. Other medications such as Acetaminophen that can be used to lower fever can be taken safely during pregnancy, but should not be taken in combination with caffeine. If he medication does not bring down your fever, you should contact your healthcare provider.
2. Take a bath
Taking a lukewarm bath or shower is an effective way to treat a fever. Since the water evaporates off of your skin, it will draw heat and consequently lower your body temperature. Don’t use cold water, however, as that can actually increase your body temperature. Also DO NOT use rubbing alcohol in the bath water, although it has been suggested to help in bringing down a fever, as the vapors can be harmful.
3. Place a washcloth on your forehead
Another way to reduce a fever is to place a cool, wet washcloth on your forehead. This will help draw the heat out of your body and in turn reduce your body temperature.
4. Wear one layer of clothing
If you have a fever during pregnancy, avoid wearing several layers of clothes as it can lead to overheating and maintaining a high body temperature, which can cause a heat stroke or even premature labor. Only dress in one layer of light fabric that will allow air circulation and cooling to ensure that you aren’t sustaining a high body temperature by overheating yourself.
5. Stay hydrated
Drinking lots of fluids is an important way to help treat your fever. Keeping your body hydrated and replenished water that is lost during a fever can help cool your body temperature. Drink water, eat warm soup, and drink beverages high in vitamin C and electrolytes to help improve hydration and replenish nutrients.
6. Stay rested
The most important thing to do during a fever is to make sure that you get plenty of rest. Stay in bed and avoid stress and activity in order to allow your immune system to fight off whatever is attacking it and allow the fever to run its course.
7. Take your prenatal vitamins
Taking prenatal vitamins can help improve your immune system and help maintain your vitamin balance, which can help effectively reduce the risk of fevers.
If you are experiencing symptoms that interfere with your daily activities, such as vomiting, dizziness, or dehydration, you may need to consult your doctor. Additionally, a fever greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit during pregnancy can be serious, and you should seek medical attention
