Doubts about the flu during pregnancy

Influenza is one of the most common diseases in humans. This pathology, caused by the influenza virus, may affect pregnant women more because they have a somewhat depressed immune system during pregnancy. In addition, expectant mothers are more likely to suffer serious complications from the flu, as

Influenza is one of the most common diseases in humans. This pathology, caused by the influenza virus, may affect pregnant women more because they have a somewhat depressed immune system during pregnancy.

In addition, expectant mothers are more likely to suffer serious complications from the flu, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States (CDC).

Although the virus can not cross the placenta, the symptoms that the pregnant woman suffers and its possible complications if they can affect the fetus, so the appearance of a flu poses some doubts and questions to the pregnant woman.

Questions about the influence of the flu on pregnancy ¿- Does the flu cause harm to the fetus?

Mummies' doubts about whether the flu virus can pose risks to the baby's health are the most common and the most obvious. First, the mother should see a specialist to determine if it is a flu or a cold. If the diagnosis is confirmed, it must be borne in mind that it is the flu symptoms that can affect the baby and not the virus itself. - What symptoms of flu can harm the fetus?

Some of the symptoms caused by the virus can affect the baby in different ways, so the pregnant woman should be careful. The most common are lack of appetite, fever, dehydration and nasal congestion. - Can I take medication against the flu?

The general rule is that pregnant women do not take any medication to avoid damage to the fetus, but in the case of suffering from the flu there are drugs compatible with pregnancy, although they should always be taken under medical prescription. - Can the flu have complications in pregnant women?

The greatest risk posed by influenza during pregnancy is the possibility of complications such as pneumonia. According to the report 'Surveillance of serious hospitalized confirmed cases of influenza in Spain', carried out in 2011 by the National Epidemiology Center las, the complications entail more danger for the fetus and the mother in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and can reach to require hospitalization. - Can a pregnant woman be vaccinated against the flu?Not only is it possible for a pregnant woman to be vaccinated, but it is what most experts recommend as the most effective preventive measure. According to the CDC, studies conducted on several thousand pregnant women have evaluated the safety of receiving the influenza vaccine during pregnancy, without showing any harm to either the woman or the baby. Also the

Spanish Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SEGO) recommends vaccination against influenza A for all pregnant women, at any time during pregnancy. Patricia García . Copywriter