What should you know about dengue and pregnancy?

Dengue can cause fever, headache, joint pain, muscle aches and marked tiredness. During pregnancy, fluid balance and circulation are already changing, so vomiting, poor intake or bleeding deserve careful attention. Symptoms may be difficult to separate from other infections, and a pregnant person may need monitoring of hydration, blood results and the baby's wellbeing. A pregnant person with dengue should tell the maternity team and the clinician assessing the infection.

Contact a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) promptly if dengue is suspected or if fever follows mosquito exposure or travel. Share pregnancy stage, medicines, allergies and any bleeding. Rest, take fluids in small frequent amounts if able, and use only fever medicine approved by your clinician. Avoid self-starting aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines because they may be unsuitable when bleeding is a concern. Continue mosquito-bite precautions to reduce further transmission.

Seek urgent care for vaginal bleeding, easy bruising, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, breathing difficulty, reduced urination, or inability to drink. [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) with [Chills](/symptoms/chills/) or worsening [Muscle Aches](/symptoms/muscle-aches/) should be reported promptly. Do not wait for a routine appointment if symptoms are rapidly worsening.

Ask which tests are needed, which fever medicines are safe for you, how to monitor fluids and fetal movement, and which maternity warning signs require immediate attendance.