Fever During Pregnancy: When Should You Worry?

“Doctor, I have fever. Will my baby be okay?”

This is a common concern during pregnancy.

Let’s take the example of Meena, 28 weeks pregnant. One evening, she developed a fever of 101°F along with body ache and tiredness. She initially thought it was just a viral infection and decided to wait.

But the next morning, the fever continued.

Meena called her doctor.

Her doctor explained, “Fever during pregnancy should not be ignored. Most fevers are treatable, but we need to find out what is causing it.”

Why can fever occur during pregnancy?

Fever can happen because of common infections such as:

• Viral infections like flu or COVID-19

• Urinary tract infections (UTI)

• Throat or chest infections

• Stomach infections

• Mosquito-borne infections such as dengue or malaria, depending on where you live

When should you contact your doctor?

Call your doctor if you have:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher

• Fever that persists or keeps returning

• Severe headache, vomiting or difficulty breathing

• Burning or pain while passing urine

• Abdominal pain or contractions

• Reduced baby movements

• Rash, bleeding or unusual discharge

What should you do?

Don’t panic—but don’t self-medicate either.

Drink adequate fluids, rest and check your temperature. Contact your obstetrician to determine whether you need an examination or tests.

Some medicines commonly used for fever may be safe during pregnancy, but the right medicine and dose should be decided by your doctor.

Meena’s story had a simple ending

After evaluation, Meena was diagnosed with an infection and received appropriate treatment. Her fever settled, and her pregnancy continued normally.

The important lesson?

A fever during pregnancy does not automatically mean something is wrong with the baby. But it is a symptom that deserves attention.

If you are pregnant and have a fever, speak to your obstetrician rather than waiting it out or taking medicines on your own.

This article is for general patient education and does not replace medical consultation.

About the Author

Dr. Anuradha Narayanan is an experienced Gynaecologist & Obstetrician in Mumbai, dedicated to compassionate women’s healthcare, pregnancy care and patient education.

Anurag Women Health Care, Chembur, Mumbai

For appointment call 8850911046