What should you know about cholera during pregnancy?

Cholera causes watery diarrhoea and sometimes vomiting, which can remove water and electrolytes quickly. Pregnancy already changes circulation and the body's fluid needs; dehydration can cause weakness, dizziness, reduced urine, and less blood flow to the placenta. The infection itself and the resulting fluid imbalance both deserve assessment, even if symptoms started recently.

Treatment decisions should account for the stage of pregnancy, hydration status, other medical conditions, and the ability to keep fluids down. A maternity or medical team can coordinate rehydration and monitor the pregnant person's wellbeing and the baby's condition when needed.

Contact a healthcare service urgently if you have sudden watery diarrhoea or vomiting during pregnancy, particularly after possible exposure to unsafe water or food. If you are alert and able to swallow, take frequent small sips of a correctly prepared oral rehydration solution while arranging care. Do not wait for routine antenatal review, and do not start antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeal medicines without professional advice.

Use safe water and careful hand hygiene at home, and avoid preparing food for other people while unwell. Guidance on [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/) and [Oral Rehydration Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/oral-rehydration-therapy/) may help while you seek care. Severe dehydration can require [IV Fluid Therapy](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/iv-fluid-therapy/).

Seek emergency help for fainting, confusion, inability to drink, persistent vomiting, very little or dark urine, severe thirst, marked weakness, fast or difficult breathing, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, contractions, or reduced fetal movement when you normally feel movement. Tell the clinician that you are pregnant and describe the number and timing of stools and vomit as clearly as you can.

How dehydrated am I, and where should I receive rehydration? Which medicines are appropriate at my stage of pregnancy? Does the baby need monitoring? What should my household do to reduce exposure and when should I return?