Flu during pregnancy

During pregnancy, changes occur in your immune system, heart, and lungs. Additional stress is placed on the heart and lungs as lung capacity decreases and heart rate increases during pregnancy. During this time, the immune system is also naturally suppressed, making you more susceptible to the flu during pregnancy.

Getting the flu during pregnancy can lead to pneumonia and even hospitalization, so it's important to do everything you can to avoid getting the flu during pregnancy. It also puts your child at risk. Studies have shown that flu during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.

What are flu symptoms during pregnancy?

Headache
Runny nose
Sore throat
Fatigue
Shortness of breath/Cough
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea or vomiting
Sudden chills or fever
Body aches

How can I prevent the flu during pregnancy?

Many measures can be taken as a preventive measure to prevent the flu. Some of these simple steps include washing your hands regularly, practicing healthy eating habits, getting enough sleep, and staying away from those with the flu. The flu shot is the most effective way to avoid getting the flu during pregnancy.

Are flu shots safe during pregnancy?

Flu shots have been proven to be safe for pregnant women and the unborn child. However, the nasal spray influenza vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women or women trying to get pregnant because it contains a live strain of the virus (they are excluded from treatment anyway).

Pregnant women can get the flu shot at any time during their pregnancy, although it is recommended to get vaccinated at the beginning of the flu season. In addition to the benefit of preventing the mother from getting the flu during pregnancy, the flu vaccine also has a positive effect on the unborn baby.

When a mother is vaccinated during pregnancy, antibodies are passed from the vaccinated mother to the unborn child through the placenta. Vaccination can protect babies for up to 6 months after birth. Research has also shown that preventing influenza in pregnant women through vaccination can have a positive effect on the growth of the unborn child.

The flu vaccine has also been shown to be safe for breastfeeding mothers as the antibodies pass through breast milk without harm to your baby. The only side effects are pain, soreness, and redness at the site of impact.

What should I do if I get the flu during pregnancy?

If you start to feel unwell with any flu symptoms, or think you might have one of them, see your doctor right away. Your doctor may prescribe safe antiviral drugs to treat the flu. Taking antivirals as soon as you know you are sick can shorten the duration of the illness. Other steps in fighting the flu include getting enough rest and drinking plenty of fluids.

According to experts, acetaminophen is a safe medication for fever and pain. Other potentially safe medications include dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, or cough drops. However, it is always important to check with your doctor before taking any medication. Some medications are not safe in the first or second trimester (only in the third), and some require a certain type of medication. Your doctor can provide you with detailed information about your situation.