Even during pregnancy, a woman is not immune to the flu. Often, women are even more likely to catch a cold or get the flu due to their weakened immune system. The reason for this is that during pregnancy the woman’s immune system is completely set on protecting the baby and the woman comes up short. If the woman suffers from flu, she worries a lot. On the one hand, she fears that the infection may harm her baby, and on the other hand, she has concerns about taking the prescribed or even over-the-counter medications. Very often, the pregnant woman feels unsafe because of this. In many cases, the immune system can be strengthened against colds. However, flu can still occur. In this case, the woman can already try to prevent against flu at the first cold symptoms.
Table of contents
What To Do Against Flu During Pregnancy
Strengthen your immune system with a healthy and balanced diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide the body with important vitamins. Drinking is also very important during pregnancy. Especially water, fruit teas or even herbal-based quench your thirst. Caffeine and sugar, on the other hand, are not recommended. Keep your stress in check and take time off. To keep moving and to stimulate the immune system, it is recommended to do some light sports. A long walk can be just as helpful as swimming or yoga exercises. It is not advisable to take vitamin preparations without prior consultation with your gynecologist or midwife. If flu is circulating, you should avoid heavily frequented places, such as the subway or bus. This will prevent you from catching the viruses.
Flu In Pregnancy: Dangerous For The Baby?
Flu in pregnancy manifests itself in the same way as ordinary flu. Symptoms may include chills, fever, sore throat, headache, cough and cold. The flu does not pose a danger to the baby because the viruses cannot be transmitted to the baby. However, it is important not to self-diagnose and self-treat, but to see your doctor immediately if you have the flu. If your pregnancy is not yet apparent or your doctor does not know about the pregnancy, you should definitely tell him. This way, he cannot prescribe medications that are dangerous for you or the baby. If you have a fever above 39 degrees, you should contact your doctor immediately. If the fever is very high, the baby can be harmed. Treatment for flu in many cases is with antibiotics. There are several antibiotics your doctor can resort to. Therefore, it is important that you also tell him what week of pregnancy you are currently in. For other medications that you receive or get from the pharmacy, you should definitely read the package insert.
Home Remedies For Flu During Pregnancy
Those who suffer from the flu feel very weak and tired. In pregnancy, this is no different. Only you may suffer even more because your body is more stressed. It is important that you take a sick leave and stay in bed. Flu during pregnancy must be cured. This way it cannot be carried over and lead to further complications. Tend to the bed, let your partner or family do the housework or let him lie down. Do not run away. Get plenty of sleep, because that’s what your body needs to get fit. Drinking enough is very important especially in case of flu. This way you will avoid getting dehydrated. Especially orange juice provides your body with vitamin C and helps to fight the viruses. Warm herbal teas or even warm water mixed with lemon and honey can help against sore throat and cough. Throat infections can be treated with gargles of salt water. Steam inhalations with a few drops of eucalyptus oil will clear a stuffy nose. There are many home remedies that can help you in the flu. But if it doesn’t work at all, you should definitely see your doctor and get prescribed medication. It is not important to take a lot of it, but something that really helps.
Photo: Subbotina Anna / bigstockphoto.com