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Fever during pregnancy is a common but important symptom that requires careful attention. It is defined as a temporary high in body temperature, usually above 100.4°F (38°C), and may indicate an underlying infection or inflammation. Since both the mother and the developing baby can be affected, identifying the cause of fever is crucial for proper treatment and to avoid complications.
1. Infections as the Main Cause
The most common cause of fever in pregnancy is infection. Pregnancy temporarily weakens the immune system, making women more susceptible to many infections. These can include:
a. Viral Infections:
Viruses such as the flu (influenza), COVID-19, or the common cold can cause fever, sore throat, cough, and body aches. While many viral infections are mild, some can lead to serious complications like pneumonia if not managed properly. Pregnant women are advised to get flu vaccines to reduce the risk.
b. Bacterial Infections:
Bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common in pregnancy due to hormonal changes that slow urine flow. Symptoms may include burning during urination, frequent urge to urinate, and lower abdominal pain. If untreated, a UTI can lead to kidney infection (pyelonephritis), which causes high fever, chills, and back pain.
Other bacterial causes include respiratory infections (like bronchitis or pneumonia) and gastrointestinal infections that result from contaminated food or water.
c. Parasitic Infections:
Diseases like malaria can also cause fever in pregnant women, especially in regions where malaria is common. Malaria in pregnancy is dangerous because it can lead to anemia, miscarriage, premature birth, or low birth weight in the baby.
d. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):
Certain STIs, such as HIV, syphilis, and herpes, may also cause fever and general weakness. These infections not only affect the mother but can also be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy or delivery.
2. Inflammatory and Autoimmune Conditions
Sometimes, fever may be result from autoimmune or inflammatory diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. These conditions can worsen during pregnancy, leading to fever, joint pain, and fatigue.
3. Heat Exhaustion or Dehydration
Pregnant women are more sensitive to heat due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume. Spending too much time in hot environments, exercising excessively, or not drinking enough water can cause heat exhaustion, leading to elevated body temperature, dizziness, and weakness. This type of fever is not due to infection but still requires rest, hydration, and cooling measures.
4. Reaction to Medications or Vaccines
Some medications or vaccines taken during pregnancy can cause mild fever as a side effect. For example, certain antibiotics, vaccines (like the flu shot), or even pain relievers may trigger a short-term fever response. This type of fever is usually mild and resolves on its own.
5. Other Causes
Thyroid Disorders: Overactive thyroid increases body metabolism and may cause mild fever.
Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix is a medical emergency that can cause high fever and abdominal pain during pregnancy.
Chorioamnionitis: This is an infection of the fetal membranes and amniotic fluid, typically occurring during labor. It causes high fever, uterine tenderness, and rapid heart rate in both mother and baby.
Food Poisoning: Consuming contaminated food can lead to infections like Listeriosis or Salmonella, which cause fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.