Pregnancy is a special period during which a woman's immune system becomes slightly weakened. During this time, the immune system functions in a way that prevents the mother's body from recognizing the fetus as a foreign object. As a result, susceptibility to certain viral infections, including seasonal influenza, increases.
Flu during pregnancy can be more severe than a common cold and can pose certain risks to both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, the condition of getting the flu during pregnancy should be taken seriously and should be managed under the supervision of a doctor. In this article, we will explain in detail the symptoms of flu during pregnancy, the possible risks, and what you should do in this case.
Symptoms of Flu During Pregnancy
Flu is usually caused by the influenza virus. However, symptoms may be more severe during pregnancy due to physiological changes in the body (e.g., swelling of the airways, increased heart rate).
Flu in pregnancy usually begins acutely and manifests itself with cold symptoms:
- Sudden High Fever: A body temperature of 38°C or higher is one of the key signs that differentiates influenza from a common cold.
- Severe Headache and Muscle Pain: Intense body aches and fatigue may be experienced throughout the body.
- Cough: A dry and severe cough usually begins in the advanced stages of the flu.
- Sore Throat: Discomfort and sharp pain when swallowing (sore throat during pregnancy-related flu) are also commonly observed.
- General Weakness: Severe fatigue and an overall feeling of exhaustion may be present.
- Runny or Stuffy Nose: These symptoms, typical of the common cold, may also occur with the flu.
Symptoms usually last 3-7 days, but cough and weakness can last up to 2 weeks. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop.
Flu During Pregnancy: Risks for the Mother and the Fetus
Having the flu during pregnancy is not only uncomfortable but also carries certain risks. These risks are mainly associated with prolonged high fever and the potential development of complications.
Risks for the Mother:
The greatest risk of influenza in pregnant women is the development of pneumonia. During pregnancy, lung capacity is reduced, which can cause pneumonia to progress rapidly and lead to severe respiratory complications. Other risks include complications affecting the heart and other organs.
Risks to the Fetus:
- Effects of High Fever: High fever, especially during the first trimester (3 months) of pregnancy, can negatively affect fetal development. The sooner the fever is brought down, the lower the risk.
- Preterm Birth: Getting the flu during pregnancy, especially if severe, can increase the risk of preterm birth due to inflammatory processes in the body.
- Fetal Growth Restriction: Severe influenza infection in the mother can lead to oxygen deficiency, which may indirectly affect the development of the fetus.
Note: Influenza itself has not been proven to cause anatomical defects in the fetus, but the risks may arise through the complications mentioned above.
What to Do During the Flu in Pregnancy?
If you experience symptoms of the flu or a severe cold during pregnancy, contact your doctor immediately. Self-medication is strictly prohibited!
Urgent Steps to Take:
- Doctor Consultation: It is very important to see a doctor within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. If necessary, the doctor can prescribe antiviral medications, which can help ease the course of the illness.
- Rest: Staying in bed helps the body fight off infection.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Water, weak teas, and warm soups are important to prevent dehydration. This can also reduce the likelihood of ear infections during the flu.
- Bringing Down a Fever: High fever (>38.5°C) should be brought down immediately. The safest way to bring down a fever during pregnancy is with paracetamol. Always consult your doctor about the dosage.
Preventive Measure:
The most effective way to protect against the flu during pregnancy is the flu vaccine. Getting vaccinated at any time during pregnancy protects both the mother and the baby for the first 6 months after birth. The most effective way to protect against the flu during pregnancy is the flu vaccine. Getting vaccinated at any time during pregnancy protects both the mother and the baby for the first 6 months after birth. In addition, pregnancy check-up packages are an important preventive step to support the healthy development of both the mother and the fetus.
Sore Throat During Pregnancy and Home Care
If you have a sore throat during pregnancy with the flu, there are safe home remedies you can try before taking medication. A sore throat is a common symptom of a cold.
What can be done at home:
- Saltwater Gargle: Gargling several times a day with a glass of warm water mixed with half a teaspoon of salt can help reduce inflammation and relieve throat pain.
- Warm Fluids: Consuming warm fluids such as honey water, herbal teas (after consulting your doctor), or chicken broth can soothe the throat. Honey, in particular, helps calm irritation.
- Humidifying the Air: Using a humidifier in the room, especially at night, prevents dryness of the airways and throat, which can also help alleviate symptoms such as ear congestion during the flu.
- Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the neck area can temporarily relieve throat discomfort.
Warning: Do not take any medications or sprays for sore throat during pregnancy without consulting your doctor about their ingredients.
Having the flu during pregnancy can seem frightening, but there is no need to panic. The most important step is to contact a qualified physician immediately at the first symptoms of a cold or flu. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can fully protect both the mother’s and baby’s health. Remember, prevention through vaccination is the best defense.