1. Take Safe Medications For Fever During Pregnancy
A fever during a pregnancy can upset the development of the fetus, especially if the expectant mother has a fever early in her pregnancy. Most doctors will recommend the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) during pregnancy to lower a fever. The expectant mother should follow the package directions for the appropriate dosage and remember to ask her doctor before taking any drugs during her pregnancy. Most doctors do not recommend the use of other fever reducing drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, during pregnancy.
2. Stay Hydrated If You Have a Fever
If a woman has a fever while she's pregnant, she runs a risk of dehydration. Drinking plenty of cool fluids can replenish the body's fluids and prevent dehydration. Good choices for a pregnant woman include juice, water or ginger ale. Some women like to drink warm tea or chicken broth. Dehydration in a pregnant woman can lead to uterine contractions, so it is important for a pregnant woman to stay hydrated if she has a fever.
3. Sleep at Least Eight Hours
Rest will give the pregnant woman's body time to fight off the virus or infection causing the fever, which will allow her to heal. A pregnant woman with a fever should nap several times a day if she can, and she should allow herself enough time to get a good night's sleep. At least 8 hours of sleep at night is a reasonable goal for the pregnant woman with a fever.
4. Cool the Body
If a pregnant woman has a fever, both the pregnant woman and the fetus experience an elevation in body temperature. Therefore, it is imperative that she takes measures to bring her body temperature down. Keeping her house cool with either a fan or an air conditioner can help. Cool baths or sponge baths also may lower body temperature, as will wearing loose, light and comfortable clothing. Too many layers of heavy clothing can prevent the body from cooling off. Placing a cool, wet washcloth on the forehead can also lower body temperature.
