Joy, eagerness, and worry are all natural emotions throughout pregnancy. Pregnant women frequently worry about both their own health and the welfare of their unborn child. The majority of concerns are inherent to the journey, but there are some outside influences that might heighten anxiety. Dengue fever is one such element.
We will examine the vital link between dengue and pregnancy health in this extensive guide and also discuss about how to manage the risks associated with this mosquito-borne sickness while protecting both you and your infant.
Understanding Dengue Fever
The virus that causes dengue is spread through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, most often Aedes aegypti. There are four different serotypes of the flavivirus family, which is the source of the dengue virus.
From mild to severe, dengue symptoms might include high fever, excruciating headache, severe joint and muscle pain, rash, and bleeding.
The Risk to Pregnant Women
It’s important to be aware of the dangers when it comes to dengue and pregnancy. Although pregnant women are not more prone to develop dengue, the effects of doing so can be very serious.
Maternal Health:
Mothers who have dengue are at an increased risk of developing DHF and DSS, among other consequences. In addition to being potentially fatal, severe dengue during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth or stillbirth.
Fetal Health:
If a woman is infected with dengue while pregnant, the virus may pass through the placenta and infect the fetus. Numerous fetal difficulties, including as premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental problems, may result from this.
Preventing dengue during pregnancy:
Since both the mother’s and the unborn child’s health are at risk throughout pregnancy, prevention is always preferable than treatment. Here are some critical measures to stop dengue:
Mosquito Control:
Because dengue is spread by mosquitoes, it’s crucial to reduce your exposure to them. Wear long sleeves, use mosquito repellent creams or lotions, and utilize mosquito netting, especially during the afternoon when Aedes mosquitoes are most active.
Eliminate Breeding Sites:
Make sure there are no spots around your house or in the neighborhood where mosquitoes can lay their eggs. This includes standing water in buckets, flower pots, or other water-holding containers.
Regular Check-Ups:
It’s important to get regular check-ups when pregnant. Your healthcare practitioner will constantly watch you for any indications of infection if you live in a region where dengue is a common disease.
Stay Indoors:
Because Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day, avoiding being outside during the height of mosquito activity can help you avoid getting bitten.
Medical Assistance:
Seek emergency medical assistance if you have symptoms including a high temperature, a terrible headache, or pain behind the eyes.
Taking Care of Dengue While Pregnant
It’s critical to stay informed and get the advice of your healthcare professional if you develop dengue during your pregnancy despite taking all reasonable precautions. They will keep a careful eye on your health and ensure that your symptoms and any potential problems are managed properly.
Conclusion
Health during pregnancy and dengue fever are important issues. Educating yourself and taking precautions can help you protect both yourself and your unborn child. Although there are risks, keep in mind that you may considerably reduce them with the correct information and actions.
Your health is of utmost importance because this journey is important. Enjoy every day to the fullest and never forget that you’re giving your child a safer and healthier environment by being aware and taking the appropriate safeguards.
