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Fever During Pregnancy

Overview

It is not unusual to develop a viral illness that causes a fever during pregnancy or after your delivery. Mild fevers that last only a short time usually are not a concern.

An ongoing fever that does not get better with home treatment, such as taking acetaminophen, or that does not improve after several days may mean that you have a more serious problem, such as a bacterial infection. Talk to your doctor if:

  • A fever develops and you have other health risks, such as diabetes or other chronic conditions.
  • A fever develops with other symptoms, such as symptoms of a kidney infection.
  • Dehydration develops.
  • A mild fever without an obvious cause lasts longer than 4 full days.
  • A fever without an obvious cause comes back more than once in 3 weeks.
  • A fever with an increase in vaginal discharge or a bad smell from vaginal discharge.

Remember, fever is only a symptom. Often the importance of a fever can only be seen when other symptoms are present.

Credits

Current as of: November 14, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine
Kirtly Jones MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology