Is it correct to cover up with blankets and suppress sweating when having a fever during pregnancy?
Apr 03, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. It is incorrect to cover oneself with blankets to induce sweating when pregnant and experiencing fever. Pregnant women with fever should avoid using heavy bedding or wrapping themselves up to sweat, as this prevents the body from dissipating heat effectively and may hinder cooling. Instead, it is advisable to drink more warm water in small amounts over a short period to help reduce body temperature.
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. It is incorrect for pregnant women with fever to cover themselves with blankets to induce sweating.
When a pregnant woman develops a fever, she should avoid using heavy blankets to sweat out the fever. Covering up in this situation prevents the body from dissipating heat effectively, which is counterproductive to cooling down. Instead, drinking more warm water in small amounts can help reduce body temperature.
Pregnancy is a special physiological period, so medications should not be used indiscriminately. When experiencing fever during pregnancy, it's important to get adequate rest. Applying cold packs to the forehead, armpits, and other areas, or using warm water sponge baths, may help lower body temperature.
If symptoms become more severe, acetaminophen or traditional Chinese medicine preparations such as Chaihu Oral Liquid or Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid may be taken orally under a doctor’s guidance.
It is recommended that pregnant women seek medical attention promptly when experiencing fever, without delay, to prevent adverse effects on both maternal and fetal health. The room should remain well-ventilated, and excessive blankets should be avoided to prevent worsening of the fever. If feeling cold, light covering is acceptable, but over-bundling should be avoided.
