What Should a Pregnant Woman Do If She Develops a Fever?

It is common for a woman’s immune resistance to weaken after becoming pregnant, making fever a relatively frequent occurrence. Prompt treatment is essential when a pregnant woman develops a fever; otherwise, it may seriously affect the health and development of the fetus. So what should be done if a pregnant woman develops a fever?

What to Do When a Pregnant Woman Develops a Fever

Special caution is required when managing fever during pregnancy. Inappropriate or careless use of medications can significantly increase the risk of fetal complications. If the body temperature remains below 38.5°C (101.3°F), the woman should drink plenty of fluids and employ physical cooling methods (e.g., tepid sponging). If excessive sweating occurs, she may consume lightly salted water to replenish electrolytes. For fevers exceeding 38.5°C (101.3°F), certain traditional Chinese patent medicines—such as Bupleurum injection—may be used under medical guidance, alongside continued physical cooling measures. If fever persists for two days without effective control, the woman should promptly visit the Department of Infectious Diseases at a reputable hospital. In such cases, comprehensive anti-infective therapy may be considered after careful evaluation of risks and benefits.

Pregnant women should brush their teeth twice daily—upon waking and before bedtime—and rinse their mouth after each meal to minimize oral bacterial load. They should avoid crowded, noisy public places where poor ventilation leads to higher concentrations of pathogenic microorganisms, thereby increasing infection risk. If family members or close contacts develop colds or flu-like symptoms, the pregnant woman should wear a mask for protection.

Ensure adequate sleep daily. Maintain a balanced diet rich in diverse foods, especially fresh vegetables and sufficient high-quality protein, and drink ample water. Pregnant women should wash hands frequently, engage in appropriate physical activity, keep indoor air fresh, and adjust clothing promptly according to ambient temperature changes. We hope this information proves helpful to you.