How to Handle Fever during Pregnancy

Low fever during pregnancy is not a problem, but a high fever (102 degrees Fahrenheit and above) is harmful for expectant mother and her unborn baby.

Fever during Pregnancy

• The physiological processes during foetal development, such as protein activity, raises mother’s body temperature. High body temperature, or high fever, prevent proteins from working properly and may cause a miscarriage. To be on the safe side, keep track of rising body temperature and seek expert help if temperature is found out to be above normal.
• Fever during pregnancy rarely harms expectant mother as her body temperature is easily restored with acetaminophen. But, flu-related fever is harmful. As a precautionary measure, expectant mothers are advised to get a flu shot to prevent flu-related fevers.

Mentioned below are some guidelines to handle fever during pregnancy:

1. Prevent pregnancy symptoms: Pregnancy has several signs and symptoms. Do your best to limit the impact of symptoms, such as aches and pain. There are some dietary options such as healthy soups for sinuses and throat. Some of these foods will make you feel better from within. Scrambled eggs, oatmeal, plain pasta, rice and mashed potatoes are good food options to restrict pregnancy symptoms. Keep away from fat-rich and sugary foods.
2. Liquids: Drink up liquids to get respite from pregnancy signs and symptoms. Consider drinking nutritious soups whenever possible to drop body temperature. Hot beverages also help to normalise body temperature other than soothing a sore throat.
3. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an integral element of pregnancy diet. Loads of vitamin C foods, in the form of fruits, vegetables and juices, are highly recommended for pregnant women.
4. Avoid acidic foods: If acidic foods are worsening pregnancy signs and symptoms, including inability to keep body temperature normal, ensure that you have foods that cause less irritation. Vegetable puree, nutritious soups, thinning cereals and diluting juices are among the food options that can lower body temperature during pregnancy.
5. Be cautious when consuming milk: If you suspect that milk is making your pregnancy symptoms worse, look for other sources of calcium to meet pregnancy dietary needs. But, if it doesn't bother you, go ahead  drink milk but carefully.
6. Dietary choices: Healthy dietary choices (fruits and veggies) during pregnancy lower the risk of developing upper respiratory infections. Besides, nutritional deficiency during pregnancy may cause colds and sinus infections. Wise dietary choices boost immune system’s ability to protect mothers from illnesses and infections. If your appetite has dropped with a pregnancy complication, consult your health care provider for seeking a suitable approach to eat healthy.

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