Stomach flu during pregnancy

Gastroenteritis can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain, fever and poor appetite. Pregnancy can make dehydration more concerning for both your wellbeing and the pregnancy, particularly when fluids will not stay down. A stomach infection is different from normal pregnancy nausea, although the two can overlap. Tell your clinician about the timing, stool changes, fever and any pregnancy symptoms that feel unusual.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink and rest. When able, eat small portions of familiar foods. Check with your obstetric or medical team before taking anti-vomiting, anti-diarrhoea, pain or fever medicines; some products are not suitable in pregnancy. Wash hands with soap and water and avoid preparing food for other people while ill.

Contact your maternity or medical team promptly if you cannot keep fluids down, urine becomes very dark or infrequent, fever persists, or symptoms are worsening. Seek urgent care for fainting, confusion, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, painful contractions, or reduced fetal movement later in pregnancy.

Ask which rehydration drink and medicines are appropriate for your stage of pregnancy. Share your temperature, urine output, ability to drink, recent food or travel exposures, and any concerns about fetal movement or contractions.