Is it normal to have flu when pregnant

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. Learn more about the safety of the flu shot here.

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. 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:. 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:. 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. Learn more. Fetal macrosomia is a condition wherein a baby is born at a heavier birth weight than usual. One of the most common complications of flu is bronchitis , a chest infection that can become serious and develop into pneumonia. Other complications are not common, but include:. If you have flu while you're pregnant, it could mean your baby is born prematurely or has a low birthweight , and can even lead to stillbirth or death in the first week of life.

Getting the flu vaccine is safe during any stage of pregnancy, from the first few weeks up to your expected due date. Women who have had the flu vaccine while pregnant also pass some protection on to their babies, which lasts for the first 6 months of their lives. The vaccine also poses no risk to women who are breastfeeding , or to their babies. The flu vaccine is free for pregnant women as part of the National Immunisation Program.

Read more about what vaccinations are safe during pregnancy. Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content. Having the flu is never fun, but when you are pregnant, you need to be especially careful. The flu shot is safe for pregnant women, and provides effective protection for you and your new-born baby for the first six months of their life.

Read more on Department of Health website. The influenza vaccine is provided at no cost for pregnant women through the National Immunisation Program. What is Influenza? Read more on National Asthma Council Australia website.

Everyone should be immunised against influenza this season when the vaccine becomes available, but pregnant women should be immunised at any time. Read more on myDr website. Pregnant women and newborn babies are especially vulnerable to influenza. Vaccinating against influenza can be life saving for both the mother and child.

Read more on Immunisation Coalition website. Read more on SA Health website. Influenza the flu is a highly contagious disease, usually prevented by vaccination and treated by managing symptoms.

Spread by body fluids from infected people, symptoms include a runny nose and sore throat. Flu can affect anyone but is especially serious for babies and older people. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering.

Video call. However, it is always important to consult your doctor before taking any medications. Some medications are not safe in the first or second trimesters only third , and some require that you get a specific type of the medication i. Your doctor can give you specifics for your situation. Comprised of the following References: Baystate Health Williams Obstetrics 22nd ed. Is antiviral flu medication safe during pregnancy?. Is it safe to get the flu shot during pregnancy?.

Pregnant Women. Flu During Pregnancy. What are the Symptoms of the flu while pregnant? Are Flu Vaccinations Safe during Pregnancy? What if I Catch the Flu during pregnancy? In Case of Emergency If you experience any of the following symptoms seek emergency care right away: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Pain or pressure in the chest or belly Sudden dizziness or confusion Vomiting that is severe or constant Decreased or no movement of your unborn baby High fever above degrees Fahrenheit or a lower one that does not go down in 24 hours with Tylenol.

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