How to Handle a Fever During Pregnancy
When you're pregnant, a common cold or the flu can be a lot more serious. Not only must you avoid taking many medications to treat the illness, but an untreated cold or fever can lead to complications in the pregnancy, including pre-term labor, miscarriage or birth defects. Though minor fevers can be treated with comfort measures at home, you should consult a doctor if your fever persists or gets too high.
Things You'll Need
- Thermometer
- Water
- Cool compress
Instructions
Take your temperature often. WebMD says that if your fever reaches 101 F, you should call your doctor. Fevers can spike unexpectedly, so it is important to check your temperature at regular intervals. Drink plenty of water. Fevers can be dehydrating, and becoming dehydrated during pregnancy can lead to complications, including minor symptoms like nausea or more serious problems like pre-term labor. Keep a bottle of water nearby and sip it regularly to stay well-hydrated. Eat comforting foods. Heidi Murkoff of the What to Expect website says that hot oatmeal, plain pasta, dry toast and mashed potatoes can make you feel better since they are soothing to your stomach and give you energy. Just stay away from fatty or greasy foods, which could cause nausea. Keep yourself at a comfortable temperature. Wear a light layer of clothing or cover yourself in a light blanket. Turn a fan on in the room, but don't let it blow directly on you. Put a cool compress or washcloth on your forehead. Take a lukewarm bath. BabyCenter says that it is important that you don't become overheated or too cold. If you become too cold, it could cause your temperature to spike. Get plenty of rest. Your body is doing a lot of hard work growing your baby, which can be tiring by itself. When you are fighting an infection and have a fever, you can become even more tired. Get plenty of sleep at night and take naps as necessary throughout the day to get through the illness and get your energy back faster.
