Pregnancy is a happy and long-awaited period for most women. I really want it to proceed without unnecessary problems. Every woman strives not to get sick during this period, so as not to endanger her unborn baby. In addition, many drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy. But sometimes during this happy time the body can present unpleasant surprises. Even with extreme caution, a woman may find that she has a fever. If the temperature rises, it can be quite dangerous for the fetus. This phenomenon does not occur without a reason. A high temperature almost always signals that some kind of disease is occurring in the body. Elevated temperature during early pregnancy is especially dangerous. The fact is that body temperature during early pregnancy directly affects the formation of the fetus.
Is temperature safe during pregnancy? A temperature that does not exceed 37.6 is relatively safe. But this is only if it is not accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms: pain, weakness, dizziness. In the first trimester, a slight increase in temperature can be provoked by a change in a woman’s hormonal levels. If a pregnant woman's temperature reaches 38 degrees or even exceeds it, she should immediately go to the doctor.
Causes of high temperature in pregnant women
In any trimester, a woman may notice that her body temperature is elevated. There may be a number of reasons for this:
- Pregnancy itself and associated changes in the body
- Infectious diseases
- Inflammatory processes in the body.
But what temperature is considered safe during pregnancy? And can temperature during pregnancy be relatively safe? When hormonal changes occur in the body, it can affect the body temperature and it will rise slightly. The fact is that a pregnant woman’s temperature may rise a little due to hormones. It is considered normal if during pregnancy the temperature reaches 37.4 degrees. This is due to the fact that the body produces a colossal amount of the hormone progesterone. He has a responsible mission - to maintain the integrity of the fertilized egg. The immune system can perceive it as a foreign body, which is why progesterone quite strongly suppresses the immune system of a pregnant woman. Therefore, body temperature may increase slightly during pregnancy.
Since a woman’s immune system is weakened, she is much more susceptible to viral attacks than usual. Even the most minor infection can cause serious illness. This is why it is so important to avoid contact with sick people and crowded places during pregnancy. It will not be superfluous to monitor personal hygiene. It is worth washing your hands more often, because many infections are transmitted through household methods. But even if a woman strictly monitors hygiene and avoids public places, she is not at all immune from diseases such as influenza, ARVI or the common cold. Especially if she found herself in a hotbed of epidemic development. With any of these diseases, your temperature may rise. In addition, she may be bothered by intestinal and genitourinary infections. They are more dangerous, and elevated temperature is their obvious symptom.
A piggy bank of importances!
Pregnancy is a period when a number of changes occur in a woman’s body. In particular, there may be fluctuations in temperature, for example, a slight increase or decrease in temperature during pregnancy. These fluctuations may be normal or may require medical intervention.
What does temperature indicate in early pregnancy?
An increase in temperature, especially in early pregnancy, can be considered normal in the following cases:
- An increase in temperature to a level of 37.0-37.4˚C in the first trimester of pregnancy is normal, since this is associated with the production of the hormone progesterone in huge quantities by the pregnant body. If a woman does not experience other signs and symptoms of a cold (cough, runny nose), then there is nothing to worry about. For complete reassurance, you can take blood and urine tests. Remember that you have absolutely no need for unnecessary worries;
- An increase in temperature can cause simple overheating. This often happens in the summer, when the air temperature goes through the roof. Or when there is not enough fresh air in the room. To avoid this situation, you need to ventilate the room more often;
- in the early stages of pregnancy, the basal temperature also rises to 37 degrees, which is again associated with the production of progesterone. The temperature remains elevated until 4-5 months. A decrease in basal temperature during this period indicates a threat of miscarriage.
We figured out what temperature is considered normal in pregnant women and under what conditions the temperature at the beginning of pregnancy may increase slightly. Let's now consider the options for an inadequate increase in temperature and find out how this can threaten you and your baby.
Causes and consequences of pathological fever during pregnancy
One of the reasons may be the ectopic localization of the ovum. This is a very dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention and decisive action.
Another reason for a slight increase in temperature to 37.0-37.8˚C may be a sluggish inflammatory process in the body. Colds and fever during pregnancy require treatment prescribed by a doctor after testing and diagnosis.
It is especially dangerous if the temperature accompanies diseases such as pyelonephritis, herpes, tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus and other diseases dangerous to the fetus. Any of these diseases that arise and become severe in the early stages of pregnancy often lead to spontaneous miscarriage or arrest of development of the fertilized egg. If the infection affects the fetus during the development of important body systems, this is almost guaranteed to lead to congenital pathology. Such pregnant women are required to undergo special monitoring throughout pregnancy. In especially severe cases, doctors recommend terminating the pregnancy.
Infections that occur after 12-14 weeks of pregnancy, when the placenta is already fully formed, are less dangerous. An increase in temperature and related factors are no longer so dangerous for the baby. However, after the 30th week, high temperature again poses a threat. Temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius can lead to premature placental abruption and premature birth. In addition, at this stage of pregnancy the placenta is already somewhat worn out and is not able to properly protect the baby.
To avoid unpleasant moments associated with an increase in temperature, it is necessary to engage in prevention - eat right, take extra vitamins, avoid crowded places, dress for the weather.
Temperature during pregnancy
Fever during pregnancy without any additional symptoms may be a manifestation of hormonal changes, which are especially active in the first weeks after conception. If a pregnant woman's body temperature is 37.0, which is not accompanied by a cough, runny nose, diarrhea or vomiting, then it is not a reason to immediately consult a doctor. You should monitor the rise in temperature, but if it is constant, it is better to consult a specialist.
Why is fever dangerous during pregnancy?
An increase in temperature in a pregnant woman may be the first clinical manifestation of any infectious or inflammatory disease, which, if untreated, can harm the woman and the fetus, and also lead to termination of pregnancy. A temperature during pregnancy of 37.5 may be the first clinical symptom of complications such as an ectopic pregnancy or frozen pregnancy. At this temperature, scanty bleeding from the genital tract and nagging pain in the groin area of varying intensity may be accompanied. Fever and cough during pregnancy can be a manifestation of ARVI, which in the early stages can lead to the formation of defects in the fetus that are incompatible with life, and as a result, to involuntary termination of pregnancy.
What are the dangers of fever during pregnancy due to poisoning?
A particularly dangerous condition for any period of pregnancy is food poisoning. Fever and vomiting during pregnancy are an early symptom of food poisoning, and fever and diarrhea during pregnancy are a later symptom. In addition to these symptoms, the following are noted: pain and discomfort in the abdomen, increased gas formation in the intestines, general weakness and chills. Vomiting and diarrhea in combination with elevated temperature is very dangerous, as it is accompanied by large losses of fluid and electrolytes. If you do not consult a doctor in a timely manner, this condition can lead to dehydration and thickening of the blood, which can lead to thrombus formation in varicose veins of the lower extremities. In cases of food poisoning, hospitalization is indicated.
Temperature in late pregnancy
Fever in late pregnancy is most often caused by a viral infection, since the immune system is weakened during pregnancy. Diseases such as pyelonephritis and food poisoning can also cause an increase in temperature in the later stages. Fever in the second trimester of pregnancy caused by ARVI is dangerous because the virus can overcome the hematoplacental barrier and penetrate the fetus, causing the development of defects in unformed organs. Elevated temperature during pregnancy in the 3rd trimester is not as bad as in the first and second, since all organs are already formed, but the virus can negatively affect blood flow in the placenta and lead to the development of hypoxia in the fetus and premature birth.
A pregnant woman has a fever - what to do?
There is no need to reduce the temperature to 37.2°C. Antipyretic medications should be started when the temperature rises above 38°C. Preference is given to paracetamol drugs, which should not be taken more than 4 times a day. It is strictly forbidden to reduce the temperature with aspirin, as it can provoke bleeding in both the mother and the fetus.
Having considered all possible reasons for the increase in temperature, we can draw the following conclusions. If the temperature in the first month of pregnancy does not exceed 37.2°C, is not accompanied by other clinical symptoms and does not cause discomfort to the woman, then this temperature does not need to be reduced. An increase in temperature above 37.2°C is a reason to consult a doctor.
Low body temperature during pregnancy
Low body temperature during pregnancy, first of all, can be a symptom of toxicosis or be caused by a decrease in immunity. Both of these conditions are typical for the first months of pregnancy. A slight deterioration in health and a drop in temperature of at least 36°C are acceptable.
However, if you notice that you have a temperature of 35 during pregnancy or a low temperature and poor health have persisted for several days, then you should definitely consult a doctor. This may be a symptom of endocrine diseases and will require additional examinations and possibly treatment.
Low fever during pregnancy
During pregnancy, especially in the first months, there may be, on the contrary, an increased temperature. This is due to the fact that the body produces the hormone progesterone, which is responsible for the development of pregnancy. One of the side effects is an increase in temperature. If the numbers on the thermometer are no more than 37.5°C, then such a low-grade fever can be regarded as a variant of the norm. Especially if no additional signs of a cold are observed.
In any case, regardless of whether you experience a high or low temperature during pregnancy, you should tell your doctor about your concerns. At the same time, if you feel well, then there is no need to constantly monitor your body temperature. Enjoy your pregnancy and don't sweat the small stuff.
Diseases that are accompanied by fever
It is important to remember that elevated temperature during pregnancy can seriously harm the fetus. ARVI ranks practically first among diseases that can occur during pregnancy. Especially in the autumn-winter period. In addition to fever, ARVI is accompanied by drowsiness, weakness, headache, and body aches. In addition, a woman may be bothered by a sore throat, annoying cough and runny nose. ARVI is not as terrible as its consequences. It can lead to laryngitis, tracheitis, otitis and even pneumonia. It is important to remember that any virus can easily bypass the placenta and penetrate the fetus. And this can provoke all sorts of developmental defects or miscarriage.
During pregnancy, inflammation of the renal pelvis or pyelonephritis occurs quite often. It occurs because the fetus can put pressure on the ureters. With this disease, the temperature rises. The flow of urine becomes difficult, causing infection. This disease is also accompanied by headache, general weakness, pain in the lower back, which can radiate to the groin or thigh. There is a sharp pain when urinating. At the same time, kidney damage is poorly identified, which is why the disease cannot always be diagnosed immediately. It is very important to begin treatment as soon as the disease is identified. If you ignore it, then gestosis may develop in the later stages. This is late toxicosis, which is very dangerous. It can lead to the fetus experiencing oxygen starvation. Because of it, developmental delay often occurs, and in advanced cases, miscarriage occurs.
Sometimes an increase in temperature during pregnancy can signal an intestinal infection. It manifests itself in the form of nausea and vomiting. Often these symptoms are perceived as a manifestation of toxicosis. Because of this, the woman ignores them and wastes precious time. And at the same time, the infection gains strength and multiplies. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to other symptoms of intestinal infection - cramps and pain in the abdomen, loose stools and temperature. In general, an increase in temperature almost always indicates that an infection has appeared in the body. Both fever and infections are equally dangerous during pregnancy.
The first trimester of pregnancy is very important for the formation of a healthy fetus. At this time, the laying of the most important organs and systems occurs. Therefore, most medications are contraindicated, as they can cause great harm. No need to waste time and self-medicate! It is better to consult a doctor immediately.
Low temperature during pregnancy
Hypothermia
is a pathological condition characterized by a decrease in body temperature below normal levels (less than 36.0 degrees Celsius). The fact that a pregnant woman's temperature drops for two or more days may indicate some health problems, and in this case it is worth consulting a doctor. Low temperature itself does not have a negative effect on pregnancy, but at the same time, diseases that cause hypothermia can cause pregnancy complications, both on the part of the mother and the fetus.
The main reasons for the decrease in temperature
during pregnancy are:
- Malnutrition.
This is especially true in the first trimester, when pregnant women suffer from toxicosis and cannot eat properly; - Decreased immunity
, which is also characteristic of pregnancy. A woman while carrying a child experiences a great need for vitamins and minerals; - Hypothyroidism
(a disease of the thyroid gland associated with a decrease in its functions). The patient complains of constant fatigue, weakness, drowsiness, feeling cold and chilly regardless of weather conditions, swelling; - Condition after infectious diseases
accompanied by high fever (flu, ARVI). Such diseases deplete the body, in particular the immune and nervous systems, which leads to disruption of the body’s thermoregulation; - Anemia
. Pregnant women often experience a decrease in hemoglobin, which can be manifested by a decrease in body temperature; - Overwork
. Strong physical and mental stress, stress have an extremely negative effect on the body and lead to its exhaustion; - Hypoglycemia
(low blood sugar levels). The woman is worried about nausea, severe weakness, dizziness, and pale skin. This condition can occur during fasting, poor nutrition, or be a sign of incipient diabetes mellitus.
If hypothermia persists for two or more days, the pregnant woman must undergo an examination to determine the cause.
decrease in body temperature:
- General blood analysis;
- General urine analysis;
- Blood chemistry;
- Ultrasound of internal organs;
- Consultation with a therapist and endocrinologist.
Treatment
Hypothermia involves an accurate diagnosis and further treatment of a specific disease. If the pregnant woman has a weakened immune system or is exhausted, it is recommended to reduce stress, normalize the daily routine, eat well, avoid stressful situations, and take vitamins. For anemia, treatment consists of taking iron supplements (sorbifer, etc.) to increase hemoglobin levels. In case of thyroid disease and severe hypoglycemia, consultation with an endocrinologist and further treatment under his supervision is necessary.
What are the dangers of fever in a pregnant woman?
Experts always rush to reassure a pregnant woman if her temperature rises to 37 in the first trimester. This is considered normal. You should be concerned if it approaches 38 or higher. After all, with such indicators, the fetus may suffer. This negatively affects his nervous system and overall development. Since the first trimester is the time for the formation of all systems, the consequences are extremely serious. This can cause developmental defects and mental retardation. At a temperature of 38 degrees, the brain begins to suffer, as well as the skeleton and limbs. There may be malformations of the upper lip, palate, and jaw. Often children who have a high fever in the first trimester of their intrauterine development are born with a cleft palate or cleft lip.
Also, due to high temperature, protein synthesis is disrupted, and the blood supply to the placenta deteriorates. In the early stages, this can cause a miscarriage, and in the later stages, premature birth.
Immediately before childbirth, an increase in temperature is also dangerous. Even if it is minor, it can lead to complications in the nervous and cardiovascular systems. And the baby may be infected during childbirth.
Body temperature norms
It is recommended to measure temperature during early pregnancy twice a day - in the morning and in the evening. Thanks to these two values, it is possible to determine the daily dynamics of its change.
Already in the first trimester of pregnancy, the temperature can rise to 37.2 °C. But such indicators are considered normal. The temperature may not exceed 37 °C throughout the entire period. There is no need to knock it down. An increase to 38 °C may be alarming.
There are different methods of measuring temperature - in the mouth, in the armpit and rectally.
The measurement under the tongue should be carried out using an electronic thermometer, through which readings can be obtained within a few seconds.
Normal body temperature in pregnant women, measured in the mouth, can reach 37.2 °C.
When measured in the armpit, the temperature should not exceed 37 °C.
If a mercury thermometer is used, it should be held for about seven minutes.
Another way to measure body temperature in the rectum is called rectal. For better glide, the thermometer should be lubricated with Vaseline.
During early pregnancy without abnormalities, the rectally measured temperature will range from 37.1 to 37.5 °C. Measurement time is no more than 3 minutes.
What to do if the temperature rises
If the temperature has reached 37-37.6 and there are no other symptoms, then do not worry. This may be triggered by the pregnancy itself. But after the temperature reaches 37.7-38, you should definitely consult a doctor. To determine the cause, the gynecologist must conduct a full examination. Only after consulting a doctor can you lower your temperature.
You should perceive temperature in a completely different way in the second trimester. At this time, progesterone no longer affects the female body, so even a slight increase in temperature may indicate inflammation or infection. Call an ambulance immediately if the increase in temperature is accompanied by vomiting, pain in any area, or if your general condition worsens.
Changes that occur in the second trimester
It is important that high thermometer readings determined in the second trimester are much more likely to indicate pathology than readings at the beginning of pregnancy.
With the beginning of the second third of pregnancy, a woman’s placenta forms. But she cannot immediately take on all the tasks, so the corpus luteum will function for another 1-3 weeks. As is already known, it secretes progesterone, which provokes slight increases in body temperature.
Very soon the placenta will take over the tasks of the ovaries and secrete the pregnancy hormone on its own. From this moment on, the expectant mother may notice an improvement in her well-being: mood swings occur less frequently, toxicosis and drowsiness disappear.
But a body temperature of 37 during pregnancy in the second trimester can still persist for natural reasons.
The second third of pregnancy requires rapid growth of the embryo.
If in the early stages only its formation and the appearance of organs and the formation of systems occur, then now all this will grow at an incredible speed.
This additional load especially affects the cardiovascular and excretory systems.
If a woman has any chronic diseases (for example, venous insufficiency or pyelonephritis), then an increase in temperature may occur precisely for these reasons.
Therefore, if you detect any extraneous symptoms, you should definitely consult a doctor for advice.
Reducing the temperature
We emphasize once again that any medications should be prescribed exclusively by a doctor. This also applies to antipyretics. Aspirin and all drugs containing it are strictly contraindicated for pregnant women. Aspirin in the first trimester can lead to miscarriage, and in the last - to bleeding and prolongation of labor. Because of it, the fetus may experience serious developmental defects. As is known, aspirin leads to a decrease in blood clotting, and this can lead to bleeding in both the mother and the fetus.
The only pill that your doctor will most likely allow you to take is Paracetamol (half a pill). You will need it if the temperature quickly rises to 38. It is important to call a doctor immediately. Without it, even Paracetamol should not be taken! No self-medication! Efferalgan, Panadol, Paracet are drugs that contain Paracetamol. It is permissible to take them during pregnancy, but only in extreme cases and individually. If you take Paracetamol for a long time during pregnancy, it will lead to anemia and may cause bleeding.
Medications for expectant mothers
The most popular and safe antipyretic in the early stages is Paracetamol and drugs based on it. In the second trimester of pregnancy, you can take Ibuprofen .
Please note that the use of antipyretics should not become regular. If, after the first decrease, the pregnant woman’s temperature rises again, then this is a reason to urgently seek medical help.
The well-known Aspirin is prohibited for use by expectant mothers.
This drug can affect the formation of the baby’s central nervous system or even cause termination of pregnancy. Analgin and other antipyretics can only be used with medical permission.
Can folk remedies help?
Temperatures up to 37.6 do not require treatment with medications. You can make do with available means. Drink more liquids – warm, not hot! It is better if it is green tea, cranberry juice, linden blossom with lemon or raspberries, milk with butter and honey, chamomile decoction. But be careful if there is swelling. Then excess liquid is not needed. This is especially undesirable in the second and third trimester.
Herbal infusions can help. Pour a couple of tablespoons of raspberries (berries) into a half-liter jar, add 3 tablespoons of dry plantain leaves, 4 tablespoons of coltsfoot. Pour boiling water over this mixture and leave. Take a tablespoon 4 times a day.
Another recipe. Take a teaspoon of white willow bark and pour a glass of boiling water. Leave until it cools down. Take a tablespoon four times a day.
The familiar vinegar or lemon juice also brings down a slight temperature. It's enough to just wipe yourself with them. You can also place a compress with cold water on your forehead.
But if folk remedies do not help, and you feel that your condition is worsening, consult a doctor immediately! Very often, folk remedies can simply be a waste of time and effort. You need to be very attentive to your condition, as you can harm not only yourself, but also your future baby.
Is it possible to prevent fever?
There are preventive measures that will help avoid unwanted fever during pregnancy.
- Avoid crowded places. This advice is especially relevant during epidemics.
- Ventilate your apartment several times during the day.
- Wash your hands often with soap, especially after walking outside. Also, after going outside, it would be a good idea to rinse your nose with saline solution.
- If your doctor allows it, you can take vitamins and special medications that boost your immunity.
Reduced temperature
During pregnancy, not only an increase, but also a decrease in temperature is dangerous. This is due to the processes that occur at this time in the female body. The temperature may drop with toxicosis. If because of it a woman is often bothered by vomiting, then dehydration and electrolyte imbalance occur. Pathologies in the endocrine system also lead to its decrease. This may require hospital treatment. This reaction may also be a symptom of immunodeficiency.
Do not forget that an increase or decrease in temperature is a signal from the body that cannot be ignored. It is important to quickly figure out what exactly led to it. It is especially worth being vigilant during the happy moment of expecting a baby. After all, now you are responsible not only for your life and health, but also for the health of the future little man. To avoid negative and threatening consequences for the fetus and mother, at the first sign of abnormal temperature, contact your doctor!
Acute period of illness
The immune system makes the body of the expectant mother especially vulnerable in the early stages, in the first trimester. But even before childbirth he cannot be called strong.
Therefore, very often a woman catches a viral infection:
- flu,
- cold,
- intestinal diseases.
In this case, the expectant mother has a fever for 3-5 days. If it does not reach critical levels, but stays within 37.2-37.6, then nothing needs to be done.
The organization of appropriate conditions, peace and positive emotions will quickly return the pregnant woman to normal life.
Under no circumstances should you carry the disease on your feet, since you are responsible not only for yourself, but also for your baby.
