Fever during early pregnancy: what to know

Fever is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. During early pregnancy it may accompany a common cold, COVID-19, acute bronchitis, or another infection. Some illnesses need specific treatment, while others improve with rest and fluids. The pregnancy stage, other symptoms, medical conditions, and medicines all affect the safest plan. A fever does not by itself show that a pregnancy is in danger, but leaving a significant or persistent fever unexplained is not advisable.

Check your temperature with a reliable thermometer, record the reading and time, rest, and drink enough fluid to avoid dehydration. Contact your maternity team, GP, or an urgent advice service for individual guidance rather than choosing a new medicine from a household supply. Give the clinician a full list of medicines and supplements, plus symptoms such as cough, rash, pain when urinating, abdominal pain, or exposure to infection. Avoid overheating and alcohol.

Seek urgent assessment for difficulty breathing, confusion, fainting, severe headache, stiff neck, a widespread rash, severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, painful urination with worsening illness, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact your pregnancy care team promptly for a fever that persists, returns, or is accompanied by a new symptom. Do not wait for a routine appointment if you feel significantly unwell.

Ask what may be causing the fever, whether you need an examination or tests, which medicine and dose are suitable for you, and what temperature or symptom should prompt urgent review. Mention gestational age, allergies, previous pregnancy problems, and recent travel or animal exposure.