Understanding the Risks of Fever During Pregnancy
Fever during pregnancy is not a normal occurrence and can signal serious underlying health issues. Medical experts emphasize that any rise in body temperature above 37.5°C should be taken seriously, as it may indicate infections such as malaria, urinary tract infections, or pneumonia. These conditions, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications including miscarriage, premature delivery, and birth defects.
The Link Between Fever and Infections
While pregnancy hormones like progesterone can slightly elevate a woman’s body temperature, this is not considered a fever. However, any significant increase in temperature should be reported to healthcare professionals immediately. Malaria, in particular, is the most common cause of fever during pregnancy, especially in regions where it is endemic, such as sub-Saharan Africa.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that malaria in pregnancy contributes to approximately 10,000 maternal deaths and 200,000 neonatal deaths annually. In 2018 alone, around 11 million pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa were infected with malaria, resulting in nearly 900,000 children born with low birth weight due to the condition. In Nigeria, malaria accounts for about 11% of maternal deaths, highlighting its significant impact on public health.
Preventing Malaria in Pregnancy
To combat the risks associated with malaria during pregnancy, the WHO recommends several preventive measures. These include:
- Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT): Using sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine at least three times during pregnancy.
- Vector Control: Employing insecticide-treated bed nets and repellents to reduce mosquito exposure.
- Chemoprophylaxis: Taking antimalarial medications when traveling to high-risk areas, with mefloquine often recommended for the second half of pregnancy.
Experts stress the importance of early registration for antenatal care and adherence to these preventive strategies to minimize the risk of infection.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Treatment
Healthcare professionals warn that symptoms of fever in pregnant women include a body temperature above 37.2°C, headache, nausea, vomiting, painful urination, abdominal pain, and sometimes contractions. If left unaddressed, these symptoms can worsen and lead to more severe complications such as anemia, malnutrition, and even miscarriage or preterm delivery.
Dr. Ernest Orji, a professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Obafemi Awolowo University, emphasizes that untreated fever can have dire consequences. He explains that when a pregnant woman presents with fever, the first step is to test for malaria parasites and check the urine for infection. While malaria and urinary tract infections are the most common causes, they can sometimes coexist.
Orji also highlights the importance of prompt medical attention over self-medication. He advises that treatment should focus on identifying and addressing the root cause of the fever, which may involve administering paracetamol, intravenous fluids, or other targeted therapies.
Other Causes of Fever During Pregnancy
In addition to malaria, other potential causes of fever during pregnancy include respiratory tract infections like pneumonia, viral illnesses such as rubella, influenza, and measles, as well as conditions like appendicitis and inflammatory bowel disease. Each of these can pose unique risks to both the mother and the developing fetus.
Professor Lawrence Omo-Aghoja, from Delta State University, warns that high fever during pregnancy can lead to congenital malformations, particularly in the early stages when the baby’s organs are forming. He notes that sustained or recurrent fever can result in miscarriage, preterm labor, and restricted fetal growth, potentially leading to low birth weight or fetal distress.
The Importance of Antenatal Care
Both experts stress the critical role of good antenatal care and early booking. They advise pregnant women to seek immediate medical attention if they experience elevated body temperature rather than relying on self-medication. Proper diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to protect both the mother and the baby.
