Can pregnant women take fever-reducing medication when they have a fever?
Nov 09, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
If a pregnant woman has a fever below 38.5°C, taking antipyretic medication is generally not recommended. If the temperature reaches or exceeds 38.5°C, antipyretics may be taken as directed by a physician. Pregnant women with mild to moderate fever, whose body temperature is below 38.5°C, are generally advised not to take antipyretic drugs. If a pregnant woman's temperature remains at 38.5°C or higher, she may use antipyretic medication under medical guidance.
If a pregnant woman has a fever below 38.5°C, taking antipyretic medication is generally not recommended. If the temperature reaches or exceeds 38.5°C, antipyretics may be taken under medical guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:
For pregnant women with mild to moderate fever—body temperature below 38.5°C—antipyretic medications are usually not advised. Instead, physical cooling methods such as wiping the body with lukewarm water or applying cold compresses to the forehead can help reduce body temperature. At the same time, pregnant women should ensure adequate rest, drink sufficient fluids, and pay attention to dietary adjustments by choosing light, easily digestible foods to maintain proper nutrition.
If a pregnant woman's temperature remains at 38.5°C or higher, it may damage brain tissue and could lead to fetal intrauterine hypoxia due to prolonged high fever, potentially even causing congenital abnormalities. In such cases, antipyretic medications may be used under a doctor’s instructions. After consulting a physician, relatively safe antipyretics can be selected to relieve discomfort caused by fever, but these should be strictly used according to medical advice and should not be taken long-term or in excessive doses.
Throughout the medication process, pregnant women must strictly follow their doctor’s guidance to ensure both safety and effectiveness. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.
