Pyrexia in Pregnancy and its Maternal and Fetal Outcome

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy

Background:

• Maternal hyperthermia (>38°C) can adversely affect fetal development.
• Pregnancy involves physiological changes that can be impacted by fever.
• Fever during pregnancy presents challenges in management and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• Determine the causes and prevalence of fever in pregnant women.
• Evaluate the impact of fever on maternal and fetal outcomes.
• Identify common etiologies and associated complications.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of pregnant women with fever (>38°C).
• Detailed clinical history, physical examination, and risk factor assessment.
• Follow-up until delivery to record maternal and fetal outcomes.

Main Results:

• 80 patients with fever were studied; 57.5% in the third trimester.
• Urinary tract infections (26%) and respiratory tract infections (25.1%) were most common.
• Complications included low birth weight (27.5%), IUGR (15%), NICU admissions (17.5%), perinatal mortality (11.25%), and preterm labor (20%).

Conclusions:

• Fever in pregnancy remains a significant clinical challenge.
• Understanding fever's epidemiology is crucial for effective management.
• Addressing fever in pregnancy requires optimized efforts and resources for better feto-maternal outcomes.