Fever During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks & How to Stay Safe
25 Mar 2025
Running a fever while pregnant can be concerning, but in most cases, it’s treatable. A mild fever (below 100.4°F or 38°C) is usually not dangerous, but a high fever or prolonged fever could pose risks to your baby—especially in the first trimester.
Let’s explore the causes, risks, safe treatments, and when to call your doctor if you have a fever during pregnancy.
Fever in early pregnancy has been linked to neural tube defects (like spina bifida).
Some infections (like flu or listeria) may increase the risk of pregnancy complications. If your fever is over 100.4°F (38°C), call your doctor for advice!
Avoid ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and aspirin, which can harm the baby. Dosage: Take regular-strength acetaminophen (500 mg), following package directions.
Coconut water or diluted fruit juice can help replenish fluids.
Wear light, breathable clothing.
Use a cool (not ice-cold) damp cloth on your forehead.
Avoid hot baths, saunas, or jacuzzis, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.
Avoid sugary or greasy foods, which may worsen nausea or digestion.
You have chills, severe headaches, dizziness, or confusion.
You experience contractions or reduced fetal movement.
You have a rash, neck stiffness, or trouble breathing. If you’re in doubt, call your doctor—better safe than sorry!
What Causes Fever During Pregnancy?
A fever is your body’s response to infection. Common causes during pregnancy include:1. Viral Infections (Colds, Flu, COVID-19)
- Fevers often come with cough, sore throat, congestion, or body aches.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
- Common in pregnancy; may include burning while peeing, back pain, or cloudy urine.
3. Stomach Bugs (Gastroenteritis, Food Poisoning)
- Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
4. Bacterial Infections (Strep Throat, Pneumonia, Listeria, etc.)
- Fevers from bacterial infections may require antibiotics.
Fever & Pregnancy Risks: When to Worry
While mild fevers (below 100.4°F or 38°C) are usually harmless, prolonged or high fevers can increase risks, including:First Trimester Risks (Weeks 1-12)
High fevers (above 102°F or 38.9°C) may increase the risk of birth defects.Fever in early pregnancy has been linked to neural tube defects (like spina bifida).
Second & Third Trimester Risks (Weeks 13-40)
Persistent high fever can lead to preterm labor or low birth weight.Some infections (like flu or listeria) may increase the risk of pregnancy complications. If your fever is over 100.4°F (38°C), call your doctor for advice!
Safe Ways to Reduce a Fever During Pregnancy
1. Take Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is safe during pregnancy and helps reduce fever.Avoid ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and aspirin, which can harm the baby. Dosage: Take regular-strength acetaminophen (500 mg), following package directions.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drink water, herbal teas, or electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration.Coconut water or diluted fruit juice can help replenish fluids.
3. Rest & Keep Cool
Lie down in a cool, dark room and rest.Wear light, breathable clothing.
Use a cool (not ice-cold) damp cloth on your forehead.
4. Try Lukewarm Baths or Showers
A lukewarm (not cold) bath can help bring down body temperature.Avoid hot baths, saunas, or jacuzzis, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.
5. Eat Light, Nutritious Foods
Soups, broths, and fruits help with hydration and recovery.Avoid sugary or greasy foods, which may worsen nausea or digestion.
When to Call Your Doctor About a Fever
Call your doctor immediately if: Fever is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher and lasts more than 24 hours.You have chills, severe headaches, dizziness, or confusion.
You experience contractions or reduced fetal movement.
You have a rash, neck stiffness, or trouble breathing. If you’re in doubt, call your doctor—better safe than sorry!
