The Flu & Pregnancy: 8 Things Pregnant Moms Need to Know Complications Women's Health Healthy Pregnancy

As an OB/GYN, my pregnant patients have many questions about the influenza virus (flu) and the influenza vaccine (flu shot). During my last pregnancy, I contracted the influenza virus. I was quite sick, yet fortunate enough to avoid serious complications. With flu season rapidly approaching (November-March), the following are a few flu facts to help keep our moms (and babies) healthy!

• Influenza is spread via virus-containing droplets when someone coughs, talks or sneezes.

• A person with the flu is contagious one day before symptoms develop and up to seven days after.

• Common flu symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion and even nausea.

• The flu can cause very serious complications in pregnancy such as preterm labor or pneumonia.

• The flu can lead to high fevers, which may be dangerous to your growing baby.

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend a flu vaccine for pregnant women during any trimester. (A flu shot without thimerasol may also be available.)

• The nasal spray is not recommended for use in pregnancy.

• The flu shot can protect your baby even after he or she is born.

Please contact your doctor if you are pregnant and having flu-like symptoms to discuss possible antiviral and natural treatment options. Read more about the ACOG's recommendations and learn more about the flu and pregnancy via CDC.gov.

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