Taking care of yourself to stay healthy and disease-free is very important for pregnant mothers. During pregnancy, mothers have lower immunity than the general population. Even abnormalities such as ‘fever,’ which we usually can manage and recover from on our own, may be a warning sign of serious illness and can affect the fetus if medical attention is not sought promptly.
‘Fever’ Symptoms in Pregnant Mothers
Normally, pregnant mothers are more likely to have a fever due to lower immunity in their bodies. Fever is a reaction that our body shows when there is an infection or inflammation. Therefore, whenever a pregnant mother has a fever, it indicates that the body is experiencing an infection or inflammation, and the cause must be identified quickly to prevent any impact on the fetus.
‘Fever’ Symptoms Often Accompany Diseases to Watch Out For
- Rubella: If a mother contracts rubella, it can cause abnormalities in the brain tissue, heart, and eyes of the fetus in up to 90% of cases. In some countries, if it is confirmed that the mother has rubella, termination of pregnancy is recommended due to the dangers to both mother and fetus.
- Respiratory tract infections such as colds, pneumonia, and bronchitis: These illnesses require prompt medical attention and early treatment because if left untreated, severe coughing can increase pressure and stimulate uterine contractions, leading to premature labor or miscarriage.
- Urinary tract infections: These are common in pregnant mothers because the uterus and bladder are close to each other. Holding urine often leads to inflammation, and inflammation near the uterus can stimulate contractions and cause premature labor.
Precautions and Self-Care
- For pregnant mothers, if the fever exceeds 38 degrees Celsius or lasts for several days without subsiding, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible.
- Pregnant mothers can take paracetamol to reduce fever, but it is important to find the cause of the fever before self-medicating. It is best to see a doctor to identify the cause and receive appropriate medication, as some fever reducers or other drugs may affect the heart and blood vessels of the fetus.
- At home, fever can be reduced by wiping the body and drinking plenty of water to help the body expel heat through urination.
- Stay in open, well-ventilated areas and avoid crowded places because pregnant mothers with low immunity are more susceptible to infections, especially airborne pathogens such as cold viruses and rubella, which enter the body through the respiratory system.
- Do not hold urine, as this can easily cause bladder inflammation.
- Eat clean and thoroughly cooked food to prevent intestinal inflammation and diarrhea, which can cause infectious fever.
Dr. Tharinee Lamluk
Specialist in Maternal and Fetal Medicine
Women’s Health Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
