Handling Flu While Pregnant

Introduction

Throughout period of pregnancy, the pregnant woman takes responsibility not only for her own health. But also for the growth and development of her unborn child. The possibility of getting the flu during pregnancy is one common issue. Since it can have major consequences for the mother and the fetus. We will examine the complicated nature of flu while pregnant in this post. It includes potential risks, security measures, and effective management techniques to protect health of both the mother and the fetus.

Understanding Influenza during Pregnancy

Influenza, sometimes referred to as the flu, is a respiratory disease that is spread by influenza viruses. Although people of all ages can contract the flu. Pregnant women are especially sensitive. Because pregnancy changes the functioning of their hearts, lungs, and immune systems. Because of these physiological changes, pregnant women are more vulnerable to serious flu-related problems.

Risks Associated with Flu while Pregnant

Having the flu while pregnant can put the developing fetus and the mother at serious risk. The following are problems related with it:

• Maternal Health Complications:
  Having the flu while pregnant, causes serious symptoms like pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of preexisting medical issues. Hospitalization may result from these issues, which in rare circumstances may even pose a threat to life.

• Fetal Health Risks:

There is a chance that the flu virus will pass through the placenta and infect the fetus inside the womb. According to research, there may be a higher chance of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. Such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and fetal distress, if a mother contracts the flu during her pregnancy.

• Neurodevelopmental Concerns:
  studies suggests a potential connection between mother flu illness and a higher chance of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring. It includes diseases like schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Even though the precise mechanisms causing this link are still being studied. The significance of reducing flu risk during pregnancy is recognized.

Prevention Strategies for Pregnant Women

Preventive steps are necessary to reduce the risk of infection since pregnant women are more at risk for flu-related problems. Pregnant women can prevent the flu and safeguard their unborn children by using the following strategies:

• Annual Flu Vaccination: 
  Regardless of trimester, medical organisations advise pregnant women to get the flu shot during flu season. Pregnant women can safely receive the flu vaccine, which offers required defense against influenza illness. Pregnant women who receive the vaccine can potentially give their newborn children, a temporary immunity. Because kids are too young to be given vaccine.

• Hand Hygiene: 
  Keeping your hands clean is an easy yet powerful approach to stop the flu from spreading. Frequently washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is advised for expectant mothers. Especially after sneezing, coughing, or handling frequently touched surfaces. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used in place of soap and water in case of an emergency.
  
  
• Avoiding Close Contact with Sick Individuals:
  Pregnant women should use precaution and stay away from direct contact with sick people. Especially if they are showing flu symptoms like fever, coughing, or body aches. They should try to avoid crowded areas where there is a greater chance of contracting respiratory viruses.
  
  
• Respiratory habits: 
  Whenever you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. Or with your elbow to help stop the spread of flu viruses. To lower the risk of infection, pregnant women should throw away used tissues right away and wash their hands afterwards.
  
  
• Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle:
  A healthy pregnancy requires stress management, adequate rest, frequent exercise, and proper diet. Pregnant moms can strengthen their immune system. And increase their resilience against infectious diseases, including the flu, by putting self-care first and leading a balanced lifestyle.
  
  

Treatment of Flu while Pregnant

Some pregnant women may still get the flu in spite of precautions. In these situations, timely detection and effective treatment are important to reduce the intensity of the symptoms. and lower the chance of consequences. Pregnant women can effectively manage flu while pregnant by following these guidelines:

• Seeking Medical Evaluation: 
  Women who are pregnant and exhibit flu-like symptoms. Such as fever, sore throat, cough, body pains, exhaustion, and congestion in the nose, should consult a doctor right away. Medical professionals are qualified to diagnose conditions, measure the severity of symptoms, and suggest the best course of action.

• Antiviral Medications:

Pregnant women with influenza may be prescribed antiviral drugs such zanamivir (Relenza) and oseltamivir (Tamiflu). When started early in treating the illness. These drugs can help lower the risk of complications, shorten the illness’s length, and reduce symptoms. To ensure safety and effectiveness, pregnant women should speak with their healthcare professional before starting any drug.

• Measures for Symptomatic Relief:
  Pregnant women might use symptomatic relief techniques along with antiviral medication to lessen flu-related discomfort. Flu symptoms like fever, muscular pains, and other symptoms can reduce by using over-the-counter pain medicines like Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Using saline nasal sprays, getting enough rest, and drinking lots of water.

• Monitoring Fetal Well-being:

When pregnant woman contracts flu, she should watch carefully for fetal movements and notify her healthcare provider of any concerns. In the event of mother’s illness, routine prenatal checkups and fetal screenings can be especially helpful in ensuring the health. And development of the unborn child.

Also Read : Fever During Pregnancy

Conclusion

Flu while pregnant is a serious health risk that could have negative impact on health of both mother and fetus. Pregnant women can reduce negative effects of flu on their pregnancy outcomes by being aware of dangers associated with infection. Taking preventive measures, and get the necessary medical attention when required.

Frequently Asked Questions