What should I do if I get influenza B during the second trimester of pregnancy?

May 07, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Hello, doctor. I'd like to consult with you: what should be done if a woman gets the flu during the second trimester of pregnancy?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Jiang Weimin
The second trimester is the most critical phase of pregnancy, during which various issues may arise that could endanger the safety of both the mother and the fetus. Once influenza (flu) is detected in a pregnant woman, she should immediately go to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment to ensure sufficient time for proper care. First, healthcare providers will evaluate the pregnant woman's symptoms through examinations such as blood pressure, blood glucose, urine tests, and fetal monitoring to determine her specific condition, identify the cause, and decide whether treatment is necessary. If the pregnant woman has the flu, blood tests are typically conducted to check for inflammation and assess the severity of the flu. If the flu is caused by inflammation, treatment usually involves oral medication or injections of anti-inflammatory drugs, such as prednisone. If the flu results from excessive secretion of cellular hormones by the mother or fetus, oral hypoglycemic agents may be prescribed for treatment. In some cases, the flu may lead to reduced fetal movement, intrauterine growth restriction, or fetal distress; in such situations, the pregnant woman is advised to rest quietly and regularly monitor fetal movements to ensure healthy fetal development. Therefore, early detection of flu during mid-pregnancy and timely implementation of an appropriate treatment plan are essential. Pregnant women should attend regular prenatal checkups at the hospital to ensure the healthy development of the fetus.