Influenza (flu) can be dangerous. Although everyone is at risk of contracting the flu, those who are pregnant or have just given birth are much more susceptible to the more severe effects of the illness.
Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant during flu season should get their flu shot.
The flu shot may prevent a pregnant women from getting the flu and reduce the risk of hospitalization. Keep reading for more information on being safe while pregnant during the flu season and when to seek help.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pregnant women are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications from the flu because their lungs, heart, and immune system change during pregnancy.
Some pregnant women who get the flu may also develop bronchitis, which may turn into pneumonia.
However, there are more serious complications associated with the flu during pregnancy although these are rare:
Avoiding the flu could increase the chances of completing a healthy pregnancy. According to a 2016 study, having the flu shot during pregnancy reduced the risk of stillbirth by 51% compared with those who did not get vaccinated.
The flu during pregnancy can cause harm to the fetus. The baby may be born prematurely or have a low birth weight.
According to the CDC, the flu shot has a long safety record indicating that it is safe to give to those who are pregnant.
However, pregnant women should not use the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), which comes in the form of a nasal spray. This is because it contains live microorganisms of the virus, which can cross the placenta and lead to a viral infection in the fetus.
However, the CDC note that the potential damage to the fetus is "theoretical," but healthcare providers do not administer the LAIV vaccine as a precaution.
A flu shot may help decrease the chances of a person contracting the flu. It may also help reduce the need to go to the hospital due to potential complications.
According to a 2018 study, a pregnant woman who gets the flu shot is 40% less likely to be hospitalized if they catch the flu.
The effects of the flu shot can also pass on to the baby once born, giving the baby a few months of added protection from the flu.
If a pregnant woman has pre-existing medical conditions, they do not need to get written consent of permission from a doctor to obtain the flu shot.
The flu has several identified symptoms that are the same for nearly everyone, which include:
Antiviral medications can help relieve symptoms of flu in pregnant women, as well as reduce the potential for complications.
They work best when a person takes them within 48 hours after symptoms appear.
Pregnant women should avoid taking medicines such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen and should talk to their healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications.
However, if it is absolutely necessary, pregnant women may take acetaminophen in the smallest effective amounts for the shortest possible time.
Otherwise, the best treatment typically involves rest and getting enough fluids.
A pregnant woman should see a doctor as soon as possible if they think they have caught the flu.
In most cases, a healthcare provider will start the woman on an antiviral medication as soon as possible.
A woman should seek emergency medical attention if they are pregnant and experience any of the following symptoms:
- trouble breathing
- confusion
- dizziness
- vaginal bleeding
- a high fever
- chest pain or pressure
- severe vomiting
- a decrease in fetal movement
- seizures
If a pregnant woman is worried at any time, they should contact their healthcare provider.
The most effective prevention method is getting the flu shot. A woman should talk to their doctor about getting a flu shot as soon as it is available for the season.
However, there are several steps that a woman can take to help prevent contracting the flu, which includes:
- frequently washing hands with warm water and soap
- getting adequate rest
- avoiding close contact with sick family or friends
- reducing stress
- exercising regularly
- eating a healthful diet
The flu can be much more severe during pregnancy.
The best option is to get the flu shot. A flu shot will not affect the health of the mother or fetus.
If the woman gets the flu, they should visit their doctor as soon as possible. A doctor might prescribe antiviral medications. Otherwise, a person should rest and consume plenty of fluids.
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