This viral infection is not very harmful, especially for certain categories of people who are considered “at risk”… and pregnant women are one of them! Is it dangerous to catch the flu during pregnancy? What symptoms should cause concern? How to treat it? What is the prevention? Professor Olivier Piconi, gynecologist and Secretary General of the Women’s Health Fund, answers our questions.
Is catching the flu dangerous for pregnant women?
Although the flu is often trivial, it is a viral infection that can be serious, and is responsible for nearly 10,000 deaths per year in France. Certain population groups are at greater risk of being seriously affected by this virus, including: people over 65 years of age, young children, people with immunodeficiency or certain chronic diseases (asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, etc.), people suffering from obesity and pregnant women.
The expectant mother is at greater risk of contracting a serious type of flu. On the one hand because his immunity is weakened, and on the other hand because his cardiopulmonary activity is more physiologically important, which leads to faster fatigue. Another factor increases the risk: the size of the uterus, which takes up space in the abdomen and prevents proper ventilation. Professor Olivier Piconi, obstetrician-gynecologist
Depending on the first trimester of pregnancy, the risk of hospitalization due to complications increases increasingly. According to available studies, the risk of a pregnant woman being hospitalized due to cardiorespiratory complications of influenza increases by 4.7 by the end of pregnancy. Influenza virus contracted during pregnancy also increases the risk of spontaneous abortion and the threat of premature birth, which is why prevention is essential.
Symptoms: When should you worry about catching the flu while you are pregnant?
Fever, chills, cough, joint and muscle pain, fatigue… The symptoms of influenza are basically the same for pregnant women and the rest of the population. However, some manifestations should be particularly worrisome for pregnant women because they may be a sign of complications that could harm the smooth progress of pregnancy:
Fever: “Any pregnant woman who has a fever (over 39 ° C) should consult a doctor,” insists the specialist. At the end of pregnancy, the risk of premature birth increases;
Persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or a feeling of severe discomfort, which may indicate respiratory complications.
Abdominal pain or uterine contractions, which may be signs of premature birth.
It is advisable to consult a doctor immediately if these symptoms appear.
Prevention: How to avoid catching influenza viruses during pregnancy?
Prevention is the main weapon against the influenza virus during pregnancy. “It starts with the rules of common sense, especially during the pandemic by respecting preventive gestures: washing hands carefully, wearing a mask in public and closed places, careful distancing of contaminated people, etc.,” Professor Piconi stresses.
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