A necessary condition for the normal functioning of the body is a constant body temperature maintained at an optimal level. A temperature of 36.6°C is considered to be the norm, but one must remember that this value is individual for each person, so the limits of normal body temperature are values ​​from 35.8 to 37.0°C.

The constancy of temperature is due to the balance between the processes of heat formation in the body - heat production and the removal of excess heat - heat transfer, in which the main role is played by the kidneys, lungs and skin. Ensuring a stable body temperature is “managed” by the thermoregulation center located in the brain - in the hypothalamus. When unfavorable conditions develop, special biologically active substances called pyrogens either enter the body from the outside or begin to be produced by the body itself. By influencing the thermoregulation center, they cause an increase in body temperature - hyperthermia.

Considering that hyperthermia is a response not only to the introduction of pyrogens that have entered the body from the outside, i.e., bacteria and viruses, but also to the production of pyrogens by the body itself, the reasons for the increase in body temperature may be:

• infections and associated inflammatory processes;
• endocrine diseases, such as thyroid pathology;
• hormonal imbalances;
• blood diseases, including anemia - pathological conditions manifested by a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood - a protein that delivers oxygen to tissues;
• neurological pathology, contributing to the activation of the thermoregulation center, psycho-emotional stress;
• autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system begins to work against its own tissues, leading to their damage;
• allergic reactions.

However, in the vast majority of cases temperature increase is an effective protective mechanism in the fight against infection, since with hyperthermia there is an increase in the rate of metabolic processes and biochemical reactions, vasodilation, which results in accelerated elimination of harmful agents due to active sweating, increased blood circulation, and increased urine output. An important factor is that hyperthermia creates conditions for the death of microbial bodies.

Temperature rise- a physiological protective reaction of the body, but during pregnancy, especially in the 1st trimester, when organogenesis is underway - a complex process of laying the organs and tissues of the fetus, hyperthermia can have an adverse effect on the unborn child. The degree of damaging effects of elevated temperature is determined by three factors: the degree of temperature increase, i.e., the numbers to which it increased, the duration of hyperthermia, and the period of pregnancy at which the temperature increase was noted.

It must be said that temperatures of 38°C and above have a damaging effect on fetal development. Adverse consequences can develop if the period of increased body temperature is sufficiently long - more than 3 days.

Regarding temperature during pregnancy and the period during which hyperthermia can have an adverse effect, the most critical period in this regard is considered to be the period from 4 to 14 weeks. When body temperature rises in the earliest stages (up to 4–5 weeks), the body acts on the “all or nothing” principle. This means that if damage to the fetus occurs due to the influence of any damaging factors, which include hyperthermia, then the death of the embryo and early spontaneous miscarriage occurs. A woman may not be aware of this due to the very short period of pregnancy, mistaking bleeding during a miscarriage for normal menstruation. If no damaging effect on the embryo occurs, then the growth and development of the fetus continues completely normally.

High has a teratogenic effect - the ability to provoke fetal malformations, the cause of which is a violation of protein synthesis. Under the influence of hyperthermia, defects can form:

• central nervous system,
• anterior abdominal wall,
• cardiovascular system,
• limbs,
• in the formation of the facial skeleton (cleft palate and upper lip, jaw malformation - micrognathia),
• microphthalmia – underdevelopment of the eyeballs.

High temperature during pregnancy provokes the formation of blood clots; blockage of the blood vessels of the placental area by them can cause intrauterine death of the embryo, non-developing pregnancy, and spontaneous miscarriage. The predisposition to miscarriage also increases because hyperthermia increases the contractility of the myometrium - the muscle of the uterus.

Damaging effect elevated temperature the body after 14 weeks, fortunately, is not so dramatic, because the formation of organs and tissues of the fetus has already ended. Since high temperature impairs blood circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues, this is dangerous for the unborn baby in terms of the development of intrauterine hypoxia and premature termination of pregnancy.

Causes of temperature during pregnancy

Unfortunately, during pregnancy there is an increased likelihood of getting infections that are accompanied by an increase in body temperature. This circumstance is due to a decrease in immunity, which occurs even during an absolutely normal pregnancy. Suppression of the activity of the immune system is necessary for successful gestation of the fertilized egg, since genetically it is only 50% “native” for the expectant mother, and 50% contains foreign genetic information inherited from the father.

Let's look at the most common diseases that can cause a rise in body temperature to high values.

Flu and acute respiratory infections during pregnancy

Unfortunately, due to the described features of the immune system, pregnant women have a fairly high chance of catching the flu or acute respiratory disease (ARI), especially during seasonal exacerbations.

Clinical manifestations of influenza in pregnant women have a classic picture: an acute onset of the disease is characteristic, when there is a sharp rise in body temperature to 39–40°C, accompanied by symptoms of intoxication - general weakness, apathy, muscle aches, drowsiness, headaches, pale skin. As a rule, the symptoms of intoxication fade into the background on the 2nd–3rd day of illness, and then a runny nose, sore throat, and dry cough appear.

Considering the physiological decrease in immunity, pregnant women with influenza or acute respiratory infections have an increased risk of developing complications in the form of secondary bacterial infections:

• pneumonia– pneumonia;
• otitis– inflammation of the middle ear;
• sinusitis– inflammation of the paranasal sinuses: sinusitis, frontal sinusitis;
• laryngotracheitis– inflammation of the larynx and trachea.

This significantly worsens the condition of the expectant mother, delays the recovery period, and necessitates the use of antibacterial therapy. In addition, a viral infection, especially if it occurred in the 1st trimester of pregnancy - up to 12 weeks, can adversely affect the development and intrauterine condition of the fetus. It is possible for the virus to penetrate the placenta - intrauterine infection; development of hypoxia - oxygen starvation of the fetus; formation of developmental defects; miscarriage.

When increasing temperature during pregnancy, regardless of the severity of hyperthermia, and the appearance of catarrhal symptoms - cough, runny nose, sore throat - the expectant mother needs to call a general practitioner at home. You should not go to a clinic or antenatal clinic yourself due to the risk of infecting other patients, which will contribute to the spread of the epidemic. In addition, if your body temperature rises, it is better to lie down - leaving the house in this state is not only undesirable, but also dangerous, since there is a risk of a sudden deterioration in health, fainting, etc.

The patient poses a danger to others in terms of transmission of viral infection by airborne droplets from the moment the first symptoms appear (fever) until the catarrhal symptoms subside, that is, within 5–7 days from the onset of the disease.

Acute pyelonephritis during pregnancy

Another common cause of hyperthermia is pyelonephritis, an infectious and inflammatory kidney disease. During pregnancy, this disease often manifests itself for the first time, and if the expectant mother has previously suffered from this disease, it often worsens. This is due to the predisposing conditions that pregnancy creates. These include difficulty in the outflow of urine due to compression of the ureters by the pregnant uterus, as well as due to the relaxing effect of the pregnancy hormone progesterone on the urinary tract, which also slows down the passage of urine.

Clinical manifestations acute pyelonephritis are a sharp increase in body temperature to 39°C and above, which may be accompanied by chills and a disturbance in the general condition. This is due to intoxication - general weakness, headache.

Against the background of general symptoms, pain in the lumbar region appears somewhat later, which can radiate to the thigh, groin area, upper abdomen, and frequent painful urination; the urine becomes cloudy due to a large number of leukocytes or is stained with blood.

The development of an inflammatory process in the kidneys can adversely affect the course of pregnancy, since this pathology is the background for the development of the threat of miscarriage or late gestosis - a complication of the second half of pregnancy, manifested by edema, increased blood pressure, and the appearance of protein in the urine. Preeclampsia can lead to conditions dangerous for the mother and fetus.

As a result of pyelonephritis, the fetus may develop:

• intrauterine infection, since exacerbation of this disease during pregnancy is a factor in the increased risk of bacterial infection;
• placental insufficiency is a complication in which the placenta does not fully perform one or more of its functions - respiratory, protective, immunological, nutritional, etc.;
• chronic hypoxia - a violation of the respiratory function of the placenta, in which insufficient oxygen flows from mother to fetus;
• fetal growth retardation.

In the postpartum period, this disease creates an increased risk of purulent-septic pathology.

It must be remembered that with pronounced general symptoms of intoxication, local symptoms, i.e., kidney disorders, in pregnant women may be blurred or completely absent, which complicates the diagnosis of pyelonephritis, but indicates the need for a thorough comprehensive examination when body temperature rises.

Pregnancy hormone

A peculiar reaction of the body to pregnancy is an increase in body temperature to 37–37.4°C. This circumstance is due to the fact that the pregnancy hormone progesterone is an internal pyrogen and, when exposed to the thermoregulation center in the hypothalamus, causes a similar effect. The effect of progesterone is determined by the periodic appearance of “hot flashes” in expectant mothers in the form of a feeling of heat, redness of the face and upper body, and increased sweating. The physiological increase in body temperature caused by progesterone influence has distinctive features:

• the temperature does not rise above 37.5°C;
• the increase in temperature is not accompanied by other signs of infectious and inflammatory diseases - cough, runny nose, pain when urinating, etc.;
• against the background of an increase in temperature, the general condition does not suffer - there is no weakness, malaise;
• temperature rise occurs only in I trimester of pregnancy, in the second and third trimesters the temperature normalizes and does not exceed 37°C.

How to reduce fever during pregnancy

Before you start lowering your body temperature, you need to clearly understand a few simple rules:

• If the temperature does not reach high values ​​(no higher than 37°C) and your general health does not suffer, you should not actively begin treatment, much less the use of medications. Do not forget that hyperthermia is a protective mechanism in the body’s fight against infection. A situation when the body temperature reaches 38°C or higher is subject to active treatment.
• Considering that any medicine will penetrate to the fetus, first it is worth trying to reduce the temperature with non-drug means, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. If there are no contraindications, for example, kidney pathology, gestosis, it is necessary to drink more liquid, warm or hot, to relieve intoxication of the body.
• Hot drinks, having a diaphoretic effect, help lower body temperature: teas with mint and/or lemon, warm milk with honey, tea with raspberries (its seeds contain a substance similar in action to aspirin), linden blossom infusion, warm chicken broth. The second quite popular and effective method of reducing fever without tablets is wiping with a cloth moistened with water at room temperature or 1.5% vinegar. The evaporation of moisture from the surface of the body increases heat transfer, which helps reduce temperature.
• An important point is to identify the cause of the elevated temperature, since hyperthermia is always a consequence of some pathological process. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate, as this can lead to a significant worsening of the condition and complicate treatment. It is necessary to call an ambulance if there is a sharp rise in body temperature with chills, if after a certain period of elevated temperature there is a decrease in temperature (a decrease below 36°C is especially unfavorable), which is accompanied by weakness, apathy, rapid breathing and increased heart rate. It is also necessary to call an ambulance if the increase in temperature is accompanied by sharp pain in the right or left lateral abdomen up to the development of nausea and vomiting. Within 24 hours, you should consult a gynecologist or therapist if you notice an increase in body temperature to any level, accompanied by aching pain in the lumbar region and urinary problems - frequent urges, cramps, urination in small portions.
• If your body temperature is above 38°C, your general well-being suffers: severe weakness, muscle aches, etc. appear, and non-drug methods have no effect, then you cannot do without the use of antipyretics. For pregnant women, the safest drug is PARACETAMOL. Although this medicine is allowed during pregnancy, with long-term frequent use of PARACETAMOL, there may be cases of adverse side effects from the kidneys and liver, a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood, which leads to the development of anemia, and platelets - white blood platelets involved in the formation of a blood clot. A decreased platelet count increases the risk of pathological blood loss. Taking into account the above, the expectant mother can take PARACETAMOL one tablet no more than 4 times a day with intervals between doses of at least 4 hours.
• Under no circumstances should you self-medicate or take antibacterial or antiviral agents yourself. Firstly, in order to prescribe the correct treatment, it is necessary to establish the factor that provoked the increase in temperature. Secondly, many antibiotics and antiviral drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy, and in some cases can harm the health of the unborn child.
• ASPIRIN, often used as an antipyretic, is contraindicated in pregnant women, especially in the 1st trimester, when all organs and tissues are developing, as it can provoke fetal development abnormalities and increase the risk of spontaneous miscarriage.

Often, expectant mothers measure their temperature at the slightest sign of malaise - a feeling of fever, chills, headache. A slight rise can be scary, because even a temperature of 37 during pregnancy seems to be the beginning of a serious illness, especially in the early stages.

Is this really true?

Temperature standards

Normal human body temperature ranges from 35.8 to 37.0 degrees. And if the thermometer stops at 37, this is not yet a reason for concern, but the upper limit of the norm. An increase from 37.1 to 37.9 is called low-grade fever or low-grade fever. And 38 degrees and above is already a febrile temperature.

These numbers refer to the standard measurement - in the armpit.

But it can be measured in other places. Medical literature and reference books often indicate values ​​not for axillary, but for rectal or oral temperature. If the measurement was carried out in the mouth, then the norm may be a thermometer reading of up to 37.3 degrees on average.

The upper limit of rectal measurement is considered to be 37.6–37.7 degrees. This method is considered the most reliable.

Measurements in the inguinal folds, ear and vagina are not used in routine practice.

Body temperature of pregnant women

During pregnancy, metabolism changes. In the early stages, the hormone progesterone plays a major role in maintaining all processes. It is thanks to him that the development of the embryo becomes possible. But progesterone has another property - it increases body temperature.

This increase does not go beyond subfebrile numbers - no higher than 38. Usually the thermometer is kept in the range of 37.1–37.4 degrees and this is observed in the early stages. Progesterone is most active in the first trimester, up to twelve weeks.

Starting from the second trimester, the temperature most often returns to normal and may rise again on the eve of childbirth. If a woman notices a fever in the second trimester or later, she should definitely see a doctor.

How to distinguish progesterone temperature from an increase in illness? It is characterized by three signs:

• low-grade fever;
• no symptoms of illness;
• occurs in early pregnancy.

Dangers of fever during pregnancy

What are the dangers of a feverish state for a pregnant woman? In the early stages, the laying of all organs of the embryo occurs. The brain, heart, kidneys, liver and lungs are formed.

Violations of thermoregulation lead to process failure. In the future, this can manifest itself as various complications - from minor to serious malformations of the child. The condition of the expectant mother in the early stages suffers no more than that of an ordinary woman.

In the second trimester, the risk for the baby decreases, but still remains. The formation of organs and systems continues. Diseases with high fever and infectious processes can be dangerous for him. In the second trimester, the risk for a woman increases.

As pregnancy progresses, her immunity steadily decreases so as not to harm the unborn child, and her susceptibility to viruses and bacteria increases.

Pregnant women become more easily infected and suffer more severely from the disease.

After the second trimester, in the later stages, the baby is almost fully formed. Infections cannot seriously harm him. But high fever is still highly undesirable. For a pregnant woman, infectious diseases during this period are the most dangerous and most often result in complications.

In the first, second and third trimesters, TORCH infections pose a serious threat to the normal development and life of the child. The temperature often increases slightly, but the consequences can be extremely dangerous.

During pregnancy, it is very important to distinguish physiological changes in temperature from pathological ones in order to begin treatment in a timely manner.

But only a doctor should carry out the diagnosis. And it is he who prescribes the appropriate therapy. Common diseases associated with fever during pregnancy include:

1. Acute respiratory diseases.
2. Infections of the genitourinary system.
3. Food poisoning and acute intestinal diseases.
4. TORCH infections.
5. Diseases of the thyroid gland with increased function.

A separate, borderline condition is thermoneurosis.

Thermoneurosis

Thermoneurosis is a condition that occurs both during pregnancy and outside of it. Manifested by an increase in temperature due to a violation of thermoregulation. Thermoneurosis is a borderline state between a physiological process and pathology. Previously, this was considered one of the symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia.

With thermoneurosis, the increase fluctuates between 37.2–37.4 degrees, almost never reaching 38.

Signs that help establish the diagnosis:

1. Low-grade fever.
2. There are no signs of an infectious disease - sore throat, runny nose, cough, gastrointestinal disorders.
3. The general condition does not suffer.
4. Conventional antipyretics do not help, but sedatives have a good effect.
5. The temperature in different armpits varies.

During pregnancy, thermoneurosis can be suspected if low-grade fever is noted not only in the early stages, but also in the second or third trimester. But this diagnosis is established only when all other causes are excluded.

Acute respiratory diseases

Acute respiratory diseases, or acute respiratory infections, are most often viral infections. They may present with the following symptoms:

1. Nasal discharge and congestion.
2. Pain, soreness and feeling of a lump in the throat.
3. A scratching sensation behind the sternum, a dry cough.
4. Headache and aching joints.
5. An increase in body temperature to 38 degrees or more.
6. Feeling unwell.

Body temperature during acute respiratory infections can increase either slightly or above 38 degrees. The main difference from a physiological rise in temperature will be the addition of the above symptoms. Sometimes the disease occurs in a mild form - a slight runny nose, scratching in the throat.

You should immediately consult a doctor so as not to miss the onset of a serious illness. Immunity decreases during pregnancy, and the expectant mother becomes easy prey for various viruses and bacteria.

Flu and sore throat are a particular danger for pregnant women.

The flu begins abruptly, with a high body temperature - above 38 degrees, aching joints, sore throat, redness of the eyes. General health is poor. In the early stages of pregnancy it is dangerous for the development of the child, in the later stages it is dangerous for the woman’s health due to weakened immunity. Can lead to complications - viral pneumonia, encephalitis.

Sore throat is a lesion of the tonsils caused by hemolytic streptococcus. Manifested by high body temperature, severe sore throat, and poor health. Untreated tonsillitis leads to damage to the joints, kidneys and heart.

Diseases of the genitourinary system

Diseases of the genitourinary system are a common complication during pregnancy. It is explained by the anatomical features of the female body, the pressure of the growing uterus on the bladder area.

The main urinary tract diseases that an expectant mother may encounter are cystitis and pyelonephritis.

Cystitis

Cystitis is manifested by frequent, painful urination. The general condition is usually not disturbed, body temperature remains within normal limits or increases slightly. Occasionally, there is a complicated form of cystitis – hemorrhagic. It is accompanied by the release of a small amount of blood at the end of urination.

Frequent urination does not always indicate cystitis. This is a normal occurrence in early pregnancy, in the first weeks, due to the pressure of the enlarged uterus on the bladder.

As the body adapts, this symptom disappears and appears again at the end of pregnancy, when the uterus reaches a significant size.

But frequent urination combined with low-grade fever during pregnancy can frighten the expectant mother.

A general urine test will help differentiate between physiological changes and inflammation of the bladder. Untreated cystitis leads to the development of pyelonephritis.

Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is a serious disease, in which the kidneys are involved in the inflammatory process. Pyelonephritis can be an independent disease or an outcome of cystitis, especially if the pregnant woman self-medicated.

The main symptoms of kidney inflammation:

1. Increased body temperature over 38 degrees.
2. Chills.
3. Frequent urination.
4. Pain and aches in the lower back.
5. Deterioration of general condition.

If such complaints appear, the woman should be immediately examined by a doctor. Pyelonephritis is treated with antibiotics even during pregnancy. Lack of treatment leads to serious complications from the kidneys and the whole body.

Stomach and intestinal diseases

Toxicosis in the early stages of pregnancy is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and bloating. The same symptoms occur with acute intestinal infections and food poisoning.

The most common infectious intestinal disease is rotavirus. Young children usually get sick, who then infect all family members.

The disease occurs with abdominal pain, nausea and frequent vomiting, diarrhea. Body temperature can rise above 38 degrees. Recovery occurs the next day or is delayed for 5–7 days. Hospitalization may be required due to the risk of dehydration.

Food poisoning has a similar clinical picture to intestinal infections.

They can occur in mild and severe forms. Sometimes the symptoms are mild. A history of the disease helps clarify the diagnosis - contact with a person sick with rotavirus, or consumption of questionable food the day before.

If low-grade fever occurs with gastrointestinal disorders in the second and third trimesters, this almost always indicates illness.

TORCH infections

There are diseases that are dangerous to contract during pregnancy. They can greatly affect a child's development. These are rubella, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus infection, herpes. For the most part, they occur like regular colds.

Only rubella has specific signs - a characteristic rash and enlarged occipital lymph nodes. But in 60% of cases it also occurs under the guise of an acute respiratory infection.

In order not to miss an infection during pregnancy, examination for TORCH infections is carried out in the first, second and third trimesters.

A temperature of 37 or higher during pregnancy, accompanied by vague rashes and even slight enlargement of the lymph nodes, is a reason for additional examination.

Thyroid diseases

Changed temperature during pregnancy occurs in the case of diseases of the thyroid gland. With increased function, a low-grade fever is noted, not reaching 38 degrees. Typically the temperature is kept between 37.2–37.5 degrees.

You can suspect a pathology of the thyroid gland if you have the following symptoms:

1. Feeling of a lump or discomfort in the throat.
2. Visible thickening in the neck area.
3. Irritability, tearfulness.
4. Weight loss.
5. Rapid heartbeat, pulse.
6. Feeling of heart failure.

Most of these signs are nonspecific and can occur during normal pregnancy. But if the temperature during pregnancy is elevated in the second and third trimesters and changes appear in the neck area, this is a reason for an urgent consultation with an endocrinologist.

Diseases of the thyroid gland in the past and in close relatives are also risk factors and require hormonal examination.

To determine the function of the thyroid gland, it is enough to know the level of one hormone - thyroid-stimulating hormone or TSH. If TSH is changed, the endocrinologist prescribes a detailed examination, including ultrasound of this organ. Normal functioning of the thyroid gland is very important for the full and proper development of the baby.

Survey

Fever during pregnancy requires a doctor's examination, even with a slight rise. It may be a sign of an infectious disease. Sometimes the temperature rises during pregnancy due to exacerbation of chronic diseases - otitis media, tonsillitis. And such conditions are fraught with dangerous complications for the child.

Examination of a pregnant woman includes:

1. General blood and urine tests.
2. Biochemical tests - markers of inflammation.
3. Immunological examination for suspected TORCH and other infections.
4. Ultrasound of the abdominal organs, kidneys, bladder.
5. consultation with an ENT doctor, pulmonologist, endocrinologist, rheumatologist if necessary.

Treatment

Fever in pregnant women does not always require treatment. Expectant motherhood places strict restrictions on the use of medications. And even one tablet taken without a doctor’s prescription can have a negative effect on the child’s health.

If the temperature rises slightly in the first trimester of pregnancy, without signs of infectious or inflammatory diseases, you just need to stop measuring it. Most likely, it is associated with excess progesterone. But such decisions are made only together with the doctor.

High fever during pregnancy requires mandatory treatment.

If in ordinary life it is better to give the body the opportunity to fight the infection itself, then during pregnancy this is unacceptable. As soon as the thermometer rises to 37.5 degrees, you must take an antipyretic.

How can you treat fever during pregnancy?

At the beginning of the disease, you can use folk remedies. Pregnant women are allowed to drink teas with herbs and berries - chamomile, raspberries, lingonberries, viburnum. They have anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. It is also advisable to consume more compotes, fruit drinks, warm tea - in the absence of edema.

Wet bandages on the forehead are allowed - moistened with warm water.

If these methods do not help, you need to seek help from medications. Among medications, Viburcol and Paracetamol are allowed. Viburcol in suppositories has an antispasmodic and mild antipyretic effect. Well tolerated. Paracetamol has a higher antipyretic effect, but more side effects.

In addition to symptomatic therapy, other medications approved during pregnancy are also used. For sore throat and runny nose, take Bioparox and Sinupret.

Basic treatment measures:

1. Food poisoning and acute intestinal infections require mandatory hospitalization in an infectious diseases hospital for a full examination and control of dehydration. If dangerous pathogens are identified - for example, salmonella, yersinia - appropriate treatment is carried out. For rotavirus infection, the main treatment will be to control diarrhea and vomiting and restore lost fluid.
2. Confirmed infections of the genitourinary system require the prescription of antiseptics or antibiotics. Pyelonephritis - acute or exacerbation of chronic - is treated only in a hospital.
3. If thyroid disease is detected, a pregnant woman must be observed by an endocrinologist - monitor TSH and take medications if necessary.
4. Primary infection with diseases from the TORCH group is an indication for treatment by an infectious disease specialist specializing in this area. With proper therapy, in most cases, complications can be avoided.
5. Thermoneurosis does not require special treatment. In this situation, a pregnant woman needs to take care of proper nutrition and rest, if possible, change the environment and work less.

An increase in temperature during pregnancy is only a symptom. It may mean nothing or say a lot. You should not engage in self-diagnosis or self-medication during this period, exaggerate or ignore the problem. It is important to consult a doctor in time so as not to treat the consequences later.

A woman who is in an interesting situation, upon receiving good news, begins to be especially attentive to her health.

Many representatives of the fair sex notice that they have a temperature of 37. During pregnancy, this phenomenon can be called the rule rather than the exception.

Of course, you should consult a doctor and dispel your doubts. But if you decide to become a mother, then it will not be superfluous to know what will happen in the body over the long 9 months and how this will affect changes in body temperature.

The reasons why the temperature remains at 37.3 during pregnancy for a long time can be both natural changes occurring in the body of the expectant mother and various diseases.

You should not turn a blind eye to this condition. It often causes unnecessary worries and doubts.

Negative emotions are not very good for a child, so you should consult a doctor and dispel your fears.

Practice shows that in 8 cases out of 10, a slight increase in temperature throughout the entire period becomes normal. But a lot depends on the duration of pregnancy.

First trimester changes

If the temperature drops, this indicates a threat of interruption. Most often, the cause of this pathology is insufficiency of the corpus luteum and, as a consequence, the release of a small amount of progesterone.

A temperature of 37 during early pregnancy is the body’s physiological reaction to a new condition. In order for the embryo to develop correctly and the body not to perceive it as a foreign body, a decrease in immune defense occurs.

This process is inherent in nature and does not require the help of people or the use of any means. A natural decrease in immunity cannot but be reflected in temperature values. Many women feel unwell during this period: headache, drowsiness, increased fatigue.

The risk of colds also increases. But if there are no additional symptoms of the disease, then there is no need to worry. In the coming weeks, your condition will improve, and your pregnancy will move to a new stage - the second trimester.

A temperature of 37 during pregnancy (in the first trimester) often appears due to the release of progesterone. This hormone is designed to support pregnancy. It is produced by the adrenal glands and the corpus luteum, formed in the ovary after ovulation.

Progesterone is necessary to relax muscle muscles, so often in the early stages of pregnancy, women experience problems with bowel movements and urination (the urge becomes more frequent).

Progesterone affects thermoregulation and the functioning of the pituitary gland. It is not surprising that it causes fluctuations in temperature values.

It is most noticeable in the evening. By measuring your body temperature after a day of work, you can see values ​​reaching up to 37.5 degrees, which are not a cause for concern.

Separately, it should be mentioned that a basal temperature of 37 during pregnancy is good.

Not all women are faced with the need to control these values. But for those who have had problems conceiving or difficulties in the early stages, this becomes a necessity.

Please note that the temperature may also increase during an ectopic pregnancy. This pathology can only be reliably established using ultrasound.

Changes that occur in the second trimester

It is important that high thermometer readings determined in the second trimester are much more likely to indicate pathology than readings at the beginning of pregnancy.

With the beginning of the second third of pregnancy, a woman’s placenta forms. But she cannot immediately take on all the tasks, so the corpus luteum will function for another 1-3 weeks. As is already known, it secretes progesterone, which provokes slight increases in body temperature.

Very soon the placenta will take over the tasks of the ovaries and secrete the pregnancy hormone on its own. From this moment on, the expectant mother may notice an improvement in her well-being: mood swings occur less frequently, toxicosis and drowsiness disappear.

But a body temperature of 37 during pregnancy in the second trimester can still persist for natural reasons.

The second third of pregnancy requires rapid growth of the embryo.

If in the early stages only its formation and the appearance of organs and the formation of systems occur, then now all this will grow at an incredible speed.

This additional load especially affects the cardiovascular and excretory systems.

If a woman has any chronic diseases (for example, venous insufficiency or pyelonephritis), then an increase in temperature may occur precisely for these reasons.

Therefore, if you detect any extraneous symptoms, you should definitely consult a doctor for advice.

Third trimester

A temperature of 37.1-37.3 during pregnancy in the third trimester is usually no longer normal.

Sometimes this condition, in the early stages, is physiological and does not indicate abnormalities.

Also, women with pituitary gland dysfunction can remain in a similar temperature regime constantly.

But statistics show that the third part of pregnancy usually occurs with normal thermometer readings. What does a slight increase in temperature indicate?

Acute period of illness

The immune system makes the body of the expectant mother especially vulnerable in the early stages, in the first trimester. But even before childbirth he cannot be called strong.

Therefore, very often a woman catches a viral infection:

• flu,
• cold,
• intestinal diseases.

In this case, the expectant mother has a fever for 3-5 days. If it does not reach critical levels, but stays within 37.2-37.6, then nothing needs to be done.

The organization of appropriate conditions, peace and positive emotions will quickly return the pregnant woman to normal life.

Under no circumstances should you carry the disease on your feet, since you are responsible not only for yourself, but also for your baby.

Recurrent chronic pathologies

A temperature of 37-37.5 in a pregnant woman can be diagnosed with chronic diseases or indolent pathologies.

Usually their exacerbation occurs with increasing load on the body. Thus, over time, blood volume increases, and obstructed urine flow can affect the functioning of the kidneys and bladder.

Chronic rhinitis and tonsillitis often worsen in expectant mothers. There is also the concept of " asymptomatic bacteriuria", which often develops in the last trimester.

In this case, the expectant mother may not observe any signs of illness, except for a slight increase in temperature. Only a specialist can make the correct diagnosis.

External influence of factors

An increase in the thermometer to 37.5 degrees or higher can occur due to overheating. This happens more often in hot weather. This is not the best condition for the expectant mother and her baby. Therefore, when going on vacation, do not forget about a hat and sunscreen.

Slight fluctuations in temperature in pregnant women can result from eating hot or spicy foods.

Physical exercise (swimming, cycling or house cleaning) also provokes a slight rise. The value of 37.4 on the thermometer can also be seen after sexual intercourse.

The influence of external factors can very easily be distinguished from a pathological process.

If the expectant mother unexpectedly discovers that she has an elevated temperature in the early stages of pregnancy, then it is worth taking a second measurement after some time.

If hyperthermia disappears within 24 hours, then we can most likely say that it arose under the influence of external provocateurs.

In what cases does a woman need treatment?

If you have a temperature of 37 in the early stages, then you should not immediately panic and grab medications. First, visit a doctor and find out the causes of this condition.

If the body has a natural reaction to external stimuli or physiological causes of hyperthermia, usually no action needs to be taken.

Remember that taking any medications can now negatively affect the formation and development of the fetus. When a doctor detects a pathology, women are recommended to undergo certain treatment regimens that are safe for their condition.

• For viral infections, approved immunomodulators and homeopathy (Ocillococcinum, Grippferon, Viburkol) are often used. The woman is shown peace and comfortable conditions.
• Treatment of bacterial diseases requires the use of antibiotics and antimicrobial agents. This is a very serious decision that the doctor makes after weighing all the pros and cons. Expectant mothers are usually prescribed penicillin drugs and only from the second third of pregnancy. Treatment involves subsequent restoration of microflora and vitamin therapy.
• The need for treatment of chronic diseases is determined by the doctor. Some situations do not require emergency treatment and may well be eliminated after delivery.

Don't forget about symptomatic treatment. Expectant mothers should try to lower their body temperature when it exceeds 37.5 degrees. Otherwise, this condition can be dangerous for the baby and negatively affect the functioning of the placenta.

The use of folk remedies

To reduce a high temperature, the expectant mother needs to drink plenty of fluids: fruit drinks, compotes, milk, still water and everything a woman likes.

Hot drinks should not be consumed. Their temperature should be as comfortable as possible. You can use decoctions of chamomile, linden,...

But you should be careful with herbal drinks, as they can trigger allergies. Rubbing with water will help reduce body temperature by 0.5 degrees.

It is strictly forbidden to add vinegar or alcohol to water. If within an hour the thermometer values ​​have not decreased or they continue to increase, then you will have to resort to medicinal methods of treating hyperthermia.

Medications for expectant mothers

The most popular and safe antipyretic drug in the early stages is Paracetamol and drugs based on it. In the second trimester of pregnancy you can take Ibuprofen.

Please note that the use of antipyretics should not become regular. If, after the first decrease, the pregnant woman’s temperature rises again, then this is a reason to urgently seek medical help.

The well-known Aspirin is prohibited for use by expectant mothers.

This drug can affect the formation of the baby’s central nervous system or even cause termination of pregnancy. Analgin and other antipyretics can only be used with medical permission.

Doctors do not advise expectant mothers to constantly measure their body temperature unless there are additional reasons for this.

By self-hypnosis you can influence the results and provoke hyperthermia yourself.

Thermometer readings ranging from 36 to 37.5 at the beginning of pregnancy are normal. There is no need to make any attempts to bring them to 36.6. Relax and enjoy your new position. Your condition will soon stabilize.

During pregnancy, it is important for a woman to be extremely careful not to get sick, because this will negatively affect the health and development of the fetus, and any medications during this period are contraindicated for a woman. A high temperature during pregnancy is a dangerous phenomenon and most often indicates the presence of some disease. Regardless of the reason for the rise in temperature, a reading close to or exceeding 38 degrees is a reason to immediately consult a doctor.

Causes of elevated temperature during pregnancy.
Changes in body temperature can be observed in any trimester of pregnancy. There may be several reasons for this - pregnancy itself and various infectious and inflammatory diseases. During the period of hormonal changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy, body temperature may increase slightly (normally up to 37.4 degrees Celsius) due to the influence of a large amount of progesterone produced, which is responsible for preserving the fertilized egg, and suppression of the immune system.

Due to weakened immune defenses, a woman’s body is susceptible to attacks from various viruses and infections, which is why during the period of pregnancy it is important to observe the rules of personal hygiene and, if possible, avoid crowds of people. Very often, the measures taken do not have an effect; a woman develops ARVI, influenza or any other cold (most often during epidemics), which may be accompanied by an increase in temperature. Urogenital and intestinal infections are considered more serious, in which an increase in temperature is one of the first symptoms.

Temperature during pregnancy due to illness.
In addition to high fever in a pregnant woman due to ARVI, other symptoms of the disease are added, in particular severe headache, drowsiness, sore throat, runny nose, aches throughout the body, and cough. ARVI is insidious in the development of complications in the form of pneumonia, tracheitis, laryngitis, otitis. Viruses can easily penetrate the placental barrier and negatively affect the fetus. Against the background of infection, spontaneous miscarriage occurs, or various malformations occur.

Pyelonephritis or inflammation of the renal pelvis is a fairly common disease among women during pregnancy. The development of the disease is accompanied by an increase in temperature; the disease develops due to fetal pressure on the ureters. Against this background, the outflow of urine is difficult, and infection occurs. In addition to high temperature, there is general weakness, headache, pain in the lower back, which can radiate to the thigh or groin, and painful urination. It is quite difficult to detect the disease during pregnancy against the background of low severity of signs of kidney damage. The disease cannot be left untreated; in the later stages, gestosis (late toxicosis) develops, resulting in oxygen starvation and developmental delay in the fetus. In more serious cases, the disease provokes miscarriage.

Intestinal infection is also a common disease among pregnant women. It manifests itself in the form of nausea and vomiting; the symptoms are, in principle, similar to the symptoms of pregnancy. The addition of other manifestations to the existing symptoms should be alarming - loose stools, pain and cramping in the abdomen, and, of course, an increase in temperature.

A high body temperature always indicates an infection; both of these factors are dangerous.

It is difficult to treat infections in the first trimester of pregnancy in conditions where almost all medications are contraindicated for expectant mothers. Therefore, do not delay, do not self-medicate, it is better to visit a doctor as soon as possible.

The danger of fever during pregnancy.
In the first trimester of embryonic development, temperatures up to 37 degrees Celsius are perceived by experts as the norm; there is no need to worry. It’s another matter if its indicator approaches 38 degrees. In this case, the fetus and its development, as well as the nervous system, begin to suffer. The formation of many organs and systems of the baby occurs precisely in the first few months of gestation; an increase in temperature above 38 degrees during this period leads to various developmental defects and mental retardation of the child. If the temperature above 38 degrees does not subside within 24 hours, the brain, limbs, and facial skeleton suffer (defects in the development of the jaw, palate and upper lip are most common).

High temperature leads to disruption of protein synthesis, impairs blood supply to the placenta, which provokes miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy, and premature birth in later stages.

An increase in body temperature, even a slight one, is dangerous before childbirth, as it can cause the expectant mother to develop various complications from the heart and nervous system. There is a risk of infection for the baby during childbirth.

What to do if your temperature rises during pregnancy.
So, if the temperature has risen to 37-37.6 degrees, there is no need to be afraid, this is a normal phenomenon, unless, of course, there are other signs that bother you. If the temperature is close to 38 degrees (37.7-38), or exceeds this figure, you should consult a doctor. A gynecologist (if necessary, together with specialists) will conduct a full examination in order to identify the cause that caused the increase in temperature. You should lower your temperature yourself only after consulting a doctor!

Remember, in the second half of pregnancy, progesterone no longer affects the woman’s body, so temperature during this period is the main symptom of infection or inflammation. If, in addition to high temperature, there is a gradual or sudden deterioration in general health, accompanied by vomiting and pain in any area, call an ambulance without delay.

How to reduce temperature during pregnancy?
Let me remind you that any antipyretic medications should be used only as directed by a doctor. Aspirin and drugs based on it are strictly contraindicated during pregnancy; in the first months there is a high risk of miscarriage when taking it, and in the later months it provokes bleeding and delays the birth process. The drug can also cause fetal malformations and reduce blood clotting, which can lead to bleeding.

If the temperature quickly approaches 38 degrees, you should take half a tablet or another drug based on it (Panadol, Efferalgan, Paracet, etc.), and call a doctor. I repeat, tablets should be taken in exceptional cases; it is advisable to get by with a single dose of medication. Prolonged and uncontrolled use of Paracetamol during pregnancy leads to anemia and causes bleeding.

Folk remedies for reducing body temperature.
Increased body temperature (up to 37.6 degrees) does not require any treatment; you can simply use folk remedies. To begin with, you should drink more warm (not hot!) liquid. Green tea, linden blossom with raspberries or lemon, cranberry juice, chamomile decoction, milk with honey and butter are suitable for this purpose. If you have a problem with edema, you will have to be extremely careful; excess fluid is not advisable, especially in the second half of pregnancy.

At low temperatures, herbal infusions will help: place two tablespoons of raspberries, four tablespoons of coltsfoot, three tablespoons of plantain in a glass jar (0.5 l) and brew with boiling water, let it brew. Drink a tablespoon four times a day.

Or this recipe: place a teaspoon of crushed white willow bark in a small jar, pour 250 ml of boiling water, leave until completely cooled. Take a tablespoon four times a day.

You can bring down the temperature by simply rubbing it with a vinegar solution, lemon juice, cold water, or cold compresses on the forehead.

If these measures do not help you, moreover, your condition worsens, call a doctor. It also happens that the use of these methods is a waste of precious time in situations where you need to act immediately. Therefore, be attentive to yourself; during pregnancy, any delay can cost the fetus its life.

Prevention of fever during pregnancy.

• If possible, avoid crowded places, especially during epidemics.
• Thoroughly ventilate the apartment several times a day.
• After going outside, rinse your nasal passages and wash your hands with soap.
• Take vitamin complexes and formulations to improve immunity, but with the permission of a doctor.

Low temperature during pregnancy.
A decrease in body temperature can also be observed during pregnancy and is a feature of a woman’s body. However, this symptom may be a sign of toxicosis (due to dehydration and electrolyte disturbances) or the presence of endocrine pathologies, which requires hospital treatment. This kind of reaction of the body may also indicate an immunodeficiency state. In any case, it is necessary to inform the doctor leading the pregnancy about this.

My dear friends! I am again pleased to welcome you to my page, where we discuss important issues regarding motherhood and childbirth. Every pregnancy is unique and a true miracle. Remember that your body is undergoing significant changes, which is what causes physiological and emotional discomfort. One of the important indicators of the normal functioning of the body is body temperature, which increases due to a variety of reasons. Today we will talk about what it can mean high temperature during pregnancy, what is dangerous it is for the body of mother and baby. Interesting? Then read on...

We measure the temperature correctly

Some mothers show unreasonable anxiety, constantly listening to their own feelings. This is especially true for impressionable and emotional young ladies. Therefore, I would like to note right away: if you feel well and are full of energy, but the thermometer notified you of a slight increase in temperature to 37–37.2 degrees, then you should not take pills, there is nothing wrong with that.

If you need self-control for your own peace of mind or you notice a deterioration in your health, then, of course, you should measure your temperature, especially since it is not difficult. The most adequate figures can be obtained by taking measurements with a mercury thermometer inserted rectally. The optimal time is morning, before getting up. This procedure will not be new to women who controlled the ripening of the egg by charting the basal temperature.

Attention: high temperature (above 38) is a reason for an urgent unscheduled visit to the doctor!

Increase in temperature in the first trimester

In my articles, I have repeatedly mentioned that in the 1st trimester the body experiences global changes, so the reason for the increase in temperature indicators may be the very presence of pregnancy. In the early stages, the rate of metabolic processes increases, heat transfer slows down somewhat, and the mother’s body intensively adapts to the new hormonal background. Increased production of the hormone, which is responsible for such important aspects as the attachment of the fertilized egg and the weakening of uterine contractions, will fully explain the slight increase in temperature indicators. Therefore, a slightly elevated temperature as a symptom of pregnancy is often observed during this period.

How to properly deal with fever during pregnancy

Every woman in an interesting position should clearly know what to do if her body temperature increases:

1. To begin with, you should realize that such a reaction of the body indicates that the immune system has launched an active mode of fighting the disease. Therefore, medications should be taken only when the mercury rises above the dangerous level of 38.
2. Make sure the room is slightly cool. Avoid overheated air to quickly establish thermoregulation.
3. Before you reduce your fever with medication, you should definitely try other methods. This is especially true in the first weeks of pregnancy. If there are no kidney diseases, drink plenty of warm drinks, which will help relieve intoxication of the body. Folk remedies proven over centuries will come to your aid: linden tea, tea with mint, lemon, raspberries, homemade chicken broth.
4. Systematic gargling with a soda solution will cope with local inflammation. For rhinitis, you can drip beetroot or aloe juice into your nose, diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio.
5. To speed up heat transfer, wipe your body with a towel soaked in water at room temperature. Doctors advise against adding alcohol and vinegar. Despite its apparent simplicity, the method is quite effective and has been tested in practice by our mothers and grandmothers.
6. The above methods are good if you know for sure that the temperature has risen due to a cold. Before treatment, it is very important to identify the true cause of changes in such an important vital sign as temperature, sharp drops in which after an increase are also very dangerous. Instead of wasting time thinking about what your deteriorating condition might mean for your child, seek medical help immediately! Hurry if there are pains of various types, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and frequent urge to urinate.
7. When the body temperature still reaches 38 degrees and folk remedies are powerless, you cannot do without medications. What can be taken to effectively reduce the temperature with minimal consequences for the baby? The safest drug is paracetamol, available in different forms. Choose the form of release that is most comfortable for you: tablets, suppositories, syrup. However, even in the 3rd trimester, taking paracetamol can lead to complications and side effects, so in no case increase the single and daily dosage recommended by the therapist, and maintain an interval between doses of the medicine of at least 4 hours.
8. Don't self-medicate! Antibiotics, antiviral drugs, and other antipyretics may be unsafe. Only a qualified physician can decide how to reduce a fever in a pregnant woman. If paracetamol does not work, in the first two trimesters doctors may recommend children's Nurofen, which contains the active ingredient ibuprofen in an adapted reduced dosage. In the third trimester, ibuprofen is prohibited, as taking it can complicate and slow down the progress of labor. Aspirin, familiar from childhood and seemingly harmless, is also prohibited. The drug thins the blood and can lead to uterine bleeding.

Fever: what are the possible consequences?

Now we have come to the most serious point: how temperature affects the fetus during pregnancy. An indicator of 37 degrees does not pose a physiological danger to the mother and baby, however, if it rises to 37.8, quick measures must be taken immediately. When the temperature rises and persists for a long time in the first weeks of pregnancy, this threatens various developmental pathologies and even.

At later stages, hyperthermia disrupts protein metabolism and weakens blood flow to the placenta, which together can lead to termination of pregnancy or premature birth.

Try to do everything in your power to avoid infectious diseases: avoid visiting crowded places, observe personal hygiene rules.

Conclusion

Girls, don’t forget that the expectant mother should not only be healthy, but also beautiful. The true beauty of a woman, glorified by brilliant artists in famous paintings, manifests itself precisely during the magical period when there is a child under her heart. Before I forget, I want to give you a little advice. I recently discovered a drug, the use of which does not require any effort or extra time, and the result exceeded my wildest expectations! Girls, I recommend trying it facial serum with instant rejuvenation effect, which contains an innovative complex of peptides and hyaluronic acid. It is easy to apply, instantly absorbed and at the cellular level eliminates the signs of early aging: fine wrinkles, dehydration and dullness of the skin.

My dears! Today we touched on a very important topic and figured out what causes elevated body temperature and why it is dangerous for mother and baby. Take care of yourself, remain calm, believe in success and be sure to seek medical help if necessary. Be healthy, see you again!