Influenza can hit hard, and when you are pregnant at the same time, it can feel extra overwhelming. High fever, aching muscles, headache, and heavy fatigue are not something you should bear alone. Most people fortunately recover well, but pregnant women have an increased risk of a more severe course of influenza. Therefore, it is important to give your body rest and contact a healthcare professional if you become ill or are in doubt.

What does influenza feel like when you are pregnant?

Influenza often comes on quite suddenly. You may feel significantly more affected than with a common cold, and it is completely natural to be concerned when your body is already working hard with a pregnancy.

Typical signs of influenza can be:

• Fever and chills
• Headache and aching muscles and joints
• Dry cough, sore throat, or stuffy nose
• Pronounced fatigue and general malaise
• Reduced appetite and possibly nausea

 

The symptoms can resemble other respiratory infections, so you cannot always determine for yourself whether it is influenza. The most important thing is therefore not to make a diagnosis at home, but to react to how you are feeling.

What can you do yourself for influenza when pregnant?

When you are sick, rest is not something you have to earn. It is an important part of giving your body the best conditions to recover. Cut back on plans and practical tasks, and feel free to ask for help with food, shopping, or other things that can wait.

• Drink small amounts of fluid often, especially if you have a fever, are sweating, or have difficulty eating.
• Eat what you can manage. Small, mild meals can be easier than large portions.
• Rest with your head slightly elevated if a cough or stuffy nose disturbs your sleep.
• Ventilate and keep the room comfortable, without getting cold.
• Stay home while you are sick, both to get rest and to reduce the risk of infecting others.

 

If you are considering fever or pain relief medication or over-the-counter remedies for cough and nasal congestion, ask a doctor or pharmacist first. Pregnancy can affect what is relevant and safe for you specifically. Also, do not start treatment with prescription medication on your own.

When should you contact a doctor or maternity ward?

Because pregnancy increases the risk of complications from influenza, it is a good idea to contact your own doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms. The doctor can assess whether you need examination or possible treatment, which works best when started early.

Contact a doctor the same day if you have a high fever of 38.5 or higher, chills, and feel clearly generally unwell. Also seek help if you experience shortness of breath, pain when breathing, chest pain, difficulty keeping fluids down, or rapidly getting worse.

If you are so far along in your pregnancy that you feel life every day, and you experience less movement than usual, you should contact your maternity ward immediately. You know your baby's usual movements best, and you can always call if something feels different.

Can influenza harm the baby in the womb?

It is understandable if your thoughts immediately go to the baby. Influenza itself does not mean that there is anything wrong with the pregnancy. But because a severe course of illness and high fever can put a strain on you, you should not ignore your symptoms. Reach out one time too many rather than one time too few.

Also try to remember that caring for yourself is caring for the baby. Rest, fluids, security, and professional assessment when necessary are all an important part of the journey through illness.

Can you prevent influenza during pregnancy?

Good hand hygiene, keeping a distance from people with clear symptoms, and resting at the onset of illness can reduce the risk of infection. Influenza vaccination is recommended for pregnant women in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, while pregnant women with chronic illnesses or special risk factors may be covered earlier in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you want to know what applies to you.

Dear, you don't have to be brave in an exhausting way. Allow yourself to lie down, accept help, and call for professional support when you need it. You are not alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is influenza dangerous when pregnant?

Most pregnant women recover without complications, but pregnant women have an increased risk of a severe course and pneumonia. Therefore, contact a doctor if you have flu symptoms so you can get an individual assessment.

When should I react to fever as a pregnant woman?

Contact a doctor if you have a fever of 38.5 or higher along with chills and a compromised general condition. Also seek help for shortness of breath, chest pain, or if you rapidly get worse.

Can I take medication for influenza when pregnant?

Always ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking fever, pain, cough, or nasal remedies during pregnancy. They can advise based on your symptoms, week of pregnancy, and other health conditions.

Can I get an influenza vaccine while pregnant?

Yes, influenza vaccination is recommended for healthy pregnant women in the 2nd and 3rd trimester. If you have a chronic illness or other risk factors, the recommendation may apply earlier. Talk to your doctor about your situation.