The flu is common, even in pregnant women. The Palo Alto Medical Foundation points out that flu vaccines are recommended for women who are pregnant to reduce the risk of complications. Women in the third trimester of pregnancy are at a greater risk of hospitalization from the flu. Flu treatment in pregnant women typically focuses on remedying the symptoms, but in more serious cases, medication may be prescribed.
Reduce Fever
A pregnant woman who develops a fever with the flu should work to reduce her body temperature right away, explains Flu.gov. Dressing lightly and keeping blankets off, even when chilling, can help reduce the body temperature. Frequent tepid baths for at least 20 minutes at a time are especially effective in lowering the body temperature. A pregnant woman should repeat the bath frequently to prevent the fever from spiking again. Acetaminophen can be taken when other fever-reducing medicines are ineffective.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is very important in pregnant women with the flu. Dehydration is one of the possible complications that can lead to hospitalization. The flu often causes cold-like symptoms. Drinking warm tea with honey and lemon can soothe the cold symptoms as well as provide fluids to the woman's body. Broth-based soups, water and juices are all good choices for relieving flu symptoms.
Antiviral Medication
Pregnant women with other health conditions or who are in the last trimester of pregnancy should contact a doctor as soon as she suspects she has the flu. Medline Plus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, reports that the use of antiviral medications in pregnancy do not pose any greater risk to the unborn baby. In fact, the benefits of taking the drug outweigh the potential for complications, such as hospitalization for dehydration and severe flu symptoms. Flu.gov points out that oseltamivir is the preferred treatment for the flu in pregnant women. It is to be administered soon after symptoms occur but within two days. This drug is taken daily for 10 days to speed the woman's recovery.
