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A fever during pregnancy can feel alarming — especially when you’re trying to protect both your health and your baby’s. But not all fevers are dangerous. You can manage many of them safely at home.

Learn about pregnancy illness prevention, how to monitor pregnancy symptoms, and safe medications for pregnancy.

Fever During Pregnancy

Your body temperature naturally fluctuates during pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow. But a true fever is generally a temperature of 100.4 F (38.0 C) or higher.

Mild elevations like feeling flushed or warm are common. They’re not usually cause for concern.

But a sustained fever above 100.4 F (38 C) may signal an infection that needs medical attention. This is especially likely when accompanied by other symptoms.

When Is a Fever Dangerous During Pregnancy?

Common illnesses like colds, flus, or urinary tract infections cause fever during pregnancy. But in pregnancy, even mild infections can escalate quickly due to changes in your immune system.

The concern isn’t just the fever itself. It’s also the underlying infection or inflammation causing it. Prolonged elevated body temperature can interfere with normal cell division and fetal development.

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:

• Abdominal pain, vomiting, or dizziness.
• Chills, body aches, or fatigue.
• Rash, persistent cough, or difficulty breathing.
• Reduced fetal movement.
• Temperature above 100.4 F (38.0 C) that doesn’t go down with rest or fluids.

The overall risk remains low. But taking action early protects both maternal health and fetal development. This is especially important in the first trimester.

How to Monitor Symptoms Safely

When you’re pregnant and feeling unwell, tracking your symptoms isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. The information gives your health care provider a clearer picture of what’s going on. It helps you catch potential issues early.

Whether you’re dealing with a mild fever during pregnancy or something more serious, consistently monitoring pregnancy symptoms empowers you to make timely, informed decisions about your care.

• Note any changes — Pay attention to new or worsening symptoms like chills, body aches, nausea, or dizziness.
• Stay alert to patterns — Are symptoms improving with rest and fluids or getting worse? Noting patterns helps guide whether home care is enough or if it’s time to call your provider.
• Take your temperature regularly — Use a reliable digital thermometer and record readings every few hours, especially if your fever persists.
• Track fetal movement — If you’re in your second or third trimester, keep an eye on your baby’s kicks and rolls. Reduced movement may signal a need for medical attention.

Safe Treatment Options for Fever During Pregnancy

Treating a fever during pregnancy safely means choosing safe medications for pregnancy and remedies that won’t harm your baby.

Safe fever medications for pregnancy

Use of Tylenol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy is safe when taken as directed. Take only the recommended dosage. Avoid prolonged use and consult your health care provider for any concerns about pregnancy and Tylenol.

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen and naproxen aren’t good choices for treatment of fever during pregnancy. There are potential risks to fetal development and amniotic fluid levels.

Doctors may recommend them in cases of exception. One example of this is the use of low-dose aspirin (162 milligrams) for preeclampsia prophylaxis. They also might recommend Indocin.

Most over-the-counter (OTC) cold and flu medications may not treat fevers. They’re supportive care for general illness and cold symptoms. Pregnant women suffering from the common cold shouldn’t worry that certain OTC cold medications are unsafe.

But they also shouldn’t take these drugs whenever they want. They also shouldn’t take them for long periods of time.

Always read a medication’s label for warnings before taking it. Never exceed the recommended dose.

Some of these OTC medications contain ingredients like pseudoephedrine. You should avoid these during pregnancy.

Some may contain antihistamines. Certain antihistamines are safe during pregnancy.

But they can also cause drowsiness. You may need to take these carefully or at bedtime.

Your health care provider may recommend specific formulations or prescribe alternatives based on your trimester and medical history.

Always check labels and consult your provider before taking any of the following:

• Combination cold medications. Some of these may contain a combination of permitted and non-permitted medications in pregnancy. Attention to detail is important.
• Cough syrups.
• Decongestants.
• Herbal remedies.
• Pain relievers, even acetaminophen.

Non-medication remedies to treat fever during pregnancy

These at-home remedies can help reduce fever as well:

• Apply cool compresses to your forehead or neck to help bring down your temperature.
• Get plenty of rest so your body can focus its energy on fighting off infection.
• Take lukewarm baths to gently reduce body temperature without shocking your system.
• Wear light, breathable clothing to avoid overheating and stay comfortable.

Hydration and Fever During Pregnancy

Hydration during pregnancy is critical, but even more so when you’re sick. Fever increases fluid loss. Dehydration can worsen symptoms and affect your baby’s development.

Maximize hydration during pregnancy by prioritizing fluid intake throughout the day:

• Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks — Caffeine and sugar increase dehydration.
• Eat hydrating foods — Focus on foods that reduce inflammation and hydrate, like watermelon, cucumber, and broth-based soups.
• Sip water regularly — Aim for small amounts throughout the day. Infuse water with fruits or vegetables for flavor and added health benefits.
• Try electrolyte drinks without added sugar — Choose pregnancy-safe options without added caffeine or artificial sweeteners.

If you’re vomiting or unable to keep fluids down, contact your health care provider. Intravenous (IV) hydration may prove necessary in severe cases.

Can a Fever Harm My Baby?

A mild fever is usually not harmful, especially if treated promptly. But high fevers — particularly in early pregnancy — may increase the risk of neural tube defects if left untreated. These can include spina bifida and anencephaly, congenital disabilities, or miscarriage.

Early intervention, hydration during pregnancy, and safe medications for pregnancy are necessary.

The most significant risks of fever during pregnancy come from:

• Dehydration or poor nutrition, which can affect fetal growth.
• Prolonged high temperatures, such as sustained fevers over 102.0 F (38.9 C).
• Untreated infections, including urinary tract infections, flu, or listeriosis.

Pregnancy Illness Prevention

Prevention is the best medicine, especially when your immune system is working overtime to support your baby. Focus on healthy habits to prevent illnesses during your pregnancy.

Get vaccinated

• COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot — Help protect both you and your baby.
• Tdap — Protects against whooping cough. You typically take this in the third trimester.

Practice good hygiene

• Avoid touching your face. Germs can enter through the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Disinfect surfaces regularly.
• Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom, before handling food, or after spending time in public.

Avoid high-risk foods

• Avoid unpasteurized dairy and juices, which may contain harmful bacteria.
• Heat deli meats and smoked seafood thoroughly before eating to reduce the risk of listeria.
• Skip raw or undercooked meats. These can carry germs that are dangerous during pregnancy.

Limit exposure to sick people

• Ask visitors to stay home if they’re sick to reduce your risk of exposure.
• Avoid crowded places during flu season, where germs can spread quickly.
• Use masks and hand sanitizer when necessary, especially in public or high-risk settings.

A fever during pregnancy can feel unsettling, but with the correct information, you can respond calmly and confidently. Monitor your symptoms, use safe treatments, hydrate, and don’t hesitate to call your health care provider if something feels off.