Fever During Pregnancy: What's Safe & When to Seek Immediate Care

Question
 I am 14 weeks pregnant with my 3rd baby. My family has recently been plagued with a nasty virus that has caused some major high fevers. I thought had escaped the awful thing but I just checked and I am at 102.2. I have taken tylenol but I was wondering, what temp do I hit the ER with? I took my 2 young girls when theirs hit 104 and 105. I am pushing the fluids and taking it easy but a little nervous about the health of the baby. Any advice would be great.  

Answer
Dear Anna,

Making sure you get plenty of fluids is essential. You should consult your OB doctor, but continuing to take the Tylenol regularly and using tepid baths to keep the temperature below 102 degrees would be my recommendation.

Studies of influenza epidemics in Europe in the 1950s and 1960s revealed a 2-3 fold increase in congenital anomalies among infants born to women with sustained fever episodes in the 1st trimester. All fevers were above 102 degrees and these were sustained for 1 or more days. However, in another study, no association was found between febrile episodes and the incidence of birth defects or problems with the pregnancy. "Other prospective and retrospective studies failed to find a significant association between hyperthermia due to influenza in early pregnancy and abnormal pregnancy outcomes" (M Paul).

So - the 1st trimester is the most crucial time and you are beyond that point, but I would not play around with this if this specific virus has a history of 104-105 degree temps. If the fever gets close to 103, I'd definitely call your doctor and ask what he/she wants you to do.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda