Pregnancy Symptoms Advice: Infections
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It is thought that the immune system is less effective in pregnancy, to prevent the mother rejecting her baby. This may make women more vulnerable to infection.
Urine infections are more common because tissue relaxation may prevent the bladder emptying completely, and the you’re left behind can become infected. You may be more susceptible to cystitis or sometimes infections can back-track to the kidneys, causing pain and nausea.
Gum infection is more likely, as the gums tend to swell during pregnancy so that tooth brushing causes bleeding more readily. Use a soft brush, and speak to your dentist if you are concerned.
It is well known that some infections can cause problems with the development of the baby, particularly in early pregnancy. If you are worried about exposure to German measles (rubella) or chickenpox, discuss your immunity with your midwife. If you have any symptoms of chickenpox, seek medical help immediately, as an antiviral drug can be given.
If you have a cold or flu, get plenty of rest and fluids. Lower your temperature with cold flannels and paracetamol, as long as you don’t exceed the stated dose over 24 hours. Some cold and flu preparations contain other drugs, so check with the pharmacist as to their suitability for use in pregnancy.
If in doubt about pregnancy symptoms or infections, always consult your midwife or doctor.
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