For pregnant women like you, experiencing a fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius at 13 weeks, it is crucial to understand that taking fever medication under a doctor's guidance is often necessary and safe, and not doing so can pose risks. Fever is the body's natural response to infection, but high or prolonged fever during pregnancy can impact the fetus, with risks varying based on the cause and timing of the illness. The belief that pregnant women should avoid fever medication is incorrect; prolonged high fever without treatment can increase both the mother's and the fetus's heart rates, affecting the baby's heart and kidney development.

During the first trimester, when fetal organs are forming, a high fever (above 38.5 degrees Celsius) can disrupt embryonic development. This may lead to an increased risk of neural tube defects (spina bifida, anencephaly, encephalocele), heart defects, and cleft lip or palate. The risk of birth defects further increases if the expectant mother's fever is caused by viruses such as Rubella, CMV, Toxoplasma, or influenza A. In the second or third trimester, a persistent high fever over several days can result in intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Additionally, pregnant women may experience dehydration, which reduces blood flow to the placenta.

At 13 weeks of pregnancy, the neural tube closure process in the fetus is complete. This reduces the risk of severe birth defects caused by high fever compared to the early stages of pregnancy. However, you should not be complacent; seek immediate medical attention for a doctor to identify the cause and guide effective, safe fever management.

A nurse takes a pregnant woman's temperature. Illustration: Tam Anh General Clinic Quan 7.

A nurse takes a pregnant woman's temperature. Illustration: Tam Anh General Clinic Quan 7.

Pregnant women must use fever medication as prescribed by a doctor; never self-medicate to avoid adverse effects on both mother and fetus. It is advisable to wear loose, light, sweat-absorbent clothing, drink plenty of water, supplement with oral rehydration solution (oresol), and sponge the body with warm water in areas like the armpits and groin to help lower body temperature. If the fever returns one to two hours after taking medication, cool compresses should be applied before the next dose.

If your fever is accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding, skin rash, persistent high fever after taking medication, severe headache, blurred vision, or convulsions, seek immediate specialized medical examination and treatment.

Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Phuong Thao

Fetal Medicine Unit

Tam Anh General Clinic Quan 7