Is it normal to run a fever during pregnancy

Join now to personalize. Photo credit: iStock. How to tell if you have a fever during pregnancy What can cause a fever in pregnancy? Can a fever during pregnancy harm my baby?

Is a fever in early pregnancy dangerous? Is fever a sign of pregnancy? Does fever in pregnancy increase the risk of autism, attention deficits, or developmental delays? Medicines to take for fever during pregnancy Other ways to treat a fever while pregnant When should I call my healthcare provider for a fever? How to tell if you have a fever during pregnancy It's not uncommon during pregnancy to feel flushed and warmer than usual, but measure your temperature with a thermometer if you're concerned.

A temperature of over What can cause a fever in pregnancy? Research is ongoing, but some studies have shown links between fever in pregnancy and: Neural tube defects NTDs Miscarriage Congenital heart defects Abdominal wall defects Oral cleft Some researchers suggest that risks are higher when the fever is untreated.

Here's some of what we know: One retrospective study analyzed data from more than children with ASD and over with DD and found an association between maternal fever and both conditions.

They also found that the ASD risk was less among mothers who took medication to lower their fevers. A prospective Norwegian study of more than , children found an association of prenatal fever and increased ASD risk, especially but not exclusively in the second trimester.

These researchers concluded that the risks were slightly lessened by the use of acetaminophen and increased markedly with fever frequency three or more fever episodes , especially after 12 weeks' gestation. Data from the same study indicated that maternal fever in early pregnancy may be a risk factor for ADHD , and especially for inattention problems. A large multisite retrospective study of children with ASD and DD who were born in the United States between and concluded that women who had an infection accompanied by a fever during the second trimester of pregnancy are more likely to have children with ASD.

A prospective study examining the motor development of children whose mothers had a fever during pregnancy found a significant association between maternal fever during pregnancy and developmental coordination disorder DCD in 7-year olds.

Medicines to take for fever during pregnancy The best medication to take to lower your fever when you're pregnant is acetaminophen. Other ways to treat a fever while pregnant In addition to taking medication, here are some things that can help lower your fever: Lie down and place a cool, damp washcloth on your forehead.

Take a lukewarm tub bath or sponge bath. Avoid using cold water, since it can cause you to shiver, leading to a spike in temperature. Lukewarm water will work fine — your fever will fall as the water evaporates off your skin. You may have heard that a sponge bath using rubbing alcohol will bring down a fever.

Don't try this, as it can cool you down too quickly, prompting your body to reheat even further. Breathing in the vapors can be harmful, too. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and help cool your body from the inside out.

Turn on a fan. Don't let it blow directly on you, because that could cause you to become chilled. Instead, put it on a low setting and let it circulate the air around you. Dress in one light layer of clothing. If you get chilled, wrap yourself in a light blanket until you're warm enough to remove it. Stay indoors in a cool place. When should I call my healthcare provider for a fever? Also call if you have: Chest pain or shortness of breath A cough for more than 7 days Diarrhea or bloody diarrhea Back pain , abdominal pain , or new nausea or vomiting Whether or not you're running a fever, it's a good idea to know what warrants a call to your healthcare provider.

Learn more: Pregnancy week by week Herbal teas during pregnancy Pregnancy symptoms. Sources BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. Featured video. Is it safe to take acetaminophen Tylenol while pregnant?

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Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances. How to Handle a Cold During Pregnancy. Getting Pregnant. Popular links under Pregnancy First Trimester. Popular links under Baby Baby Month by Month. Popular links under Toddler Toddler Month by Month.

Baby Products. Bookmark BookmarkTick BookmarkAdd save. Here's what you need to know about treating a fever when you're expecting. By Korin Miller. These symptoms can be indicative of an underlying issue or infection and can make any diagnosis and treatment plans easier to execute. Tell your doctor about any symptoms accompanying a fever, including:.

Before you speak to or head into an appointment with your doctor, taking acetaminophen Tylenol can help you manage and reduce your fever on your own. A luke warm shower or bath may also help cool your body down and provide some relief to your fever. Keep clothing and any blankets light.

You should also stay vigilant with your intake of water and other cold beverages to ensure you stay hydrated, cool and comfortable. Above all else, rest and contact your doctor. It never hurts to make a phone call. During pregnancy, your immune system is suppressed in order to protect your fetus. The best offense is a good defense. You can avoid contracting a viral infection like the common cold or the flu simply by washing your hands often and thoroughly.

If you know someone at home or work is sick, try to avoid them. Quarantine a sick family member to one area of the house and work from home or a remote location if possible if you are sick. Also, get the annual flu vaccine. This is very in important in pregnancy. Additionally, avoid eating uncooked fish, raw meat, and unpasteurized cheese when pregnant to avoid exposure to certain food-borne bacteria which can also lead to a high fever.

As stated throughout this article, you should notify your doctor any time you have a fever during pregnancy. However, the severity changes based on the degree, any additional symptoms, and where you are in your pregnancy. Seek treatment right away for any high-grade fevers, especially if you are in your first trimester and your fever has reached temperatures of degrees or higher.

But any high-grade fever and serious infection can cause problems during pregnancy if left untreated. Preventing fevers and treating the cause of them as quickly as possible when they do occur are vital to the health of you and your developing baby.