How does the flu affect pregnant women and the fetus?
Influenza is one of the most difficult illnesses to avoid for pregnant women. Seasonal influenza usually progresses benignly, but severe complications can still occur in immunocompromised individuals. Pregnant women experience many changes in their bodies, especially hormonal changes, and their immune systems are weakened compared to normal individuals, making their resistance to diseases lower; thus, pregnant women are particularly sensitive to pathogens. In pregnant women, influenza often presents more severely and the duration of the illness is usually longer than in normal individuals. Severe influenza can lead to pneumonia in pregnant women.
Pregnant women with influenza may lead to congenital defects in the fetus such as cleft lip and palate, congenital heart disease (valvular heart defects), and some physical abnormalities. The influenza virus not only increases the risk of fetal malformations (especially if the mother contracts influenza within the first 13 weeks of pregnancy), but high fever combined with the toxicity of the virus can also stimulate uterine contractions, leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or preterm birth.
To have a healthy pregnancy and a safe delivery, mothers before pregnancy need to be fully vaccinated as well as have regular health check-ups at reputable medical facilities. Hai Phong International Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital, with its team of experienced specialists, is always ready to advise, support, and accompany expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy. Pregnant women who wish to visit for a check-up please contact via HOTLINE: 0225 395 9999 for timely consultation and support!
