9 tips to avoid the flu during pregnancy

February 8, 2015  17:12

It is known that the immune system is weaker during pregnancy, so your chances to get flu and other diseases are being increased. Since your heart and lungs are working harder, it can also put stress on your body which makes you vulnerable to the virus. The flu increases your chances for miscarriage, particularly in the first trimester, as well as premature birth. During pregnancy and up to two weeks postpartum, there’s also an increased risk for hospitalization and even death.

For example, if a pregnant mother is having trouble breathing she won’t have enough oxygen for her baby, which could lead to birth defects and brain damage.

How to prevent the flu during pregnancy? Here are 9 simple tips to follow that will help avoid the flu during that period and not only:

1. Get the flu vaccine

Even if this season’s flu vaccine is not 100 percent effective, a lot of specialists claim, it may mild the symptoms if you do get sick.

The antibodies you make from the vaccine are also passed onto your baby, protecting him until he’s six months old. According to a study, the flu vaccine during pregnancy was 92 percent effective at preventing infants from being hospitalized. Those same antibodies are also passed through breast milk.

2. Wash your hands

Be sure to wash your hands frequently to avoid picking up the virus. Use warm water and soap, scrub the front and back of your hands, in between your fingers and under your fingernails for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water isn’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

3. Don't touch your face

The flu virus can easily spread into the mouth, nose and eyes so do your best to keep your hands away until you’ve washed them.

4. Kill the germs

Disinfect all surfaces you frequently touch at home and work, especially if someone has been sick.

5. Eat healthy

Plenty of fruits and vegetables, ideally five to nine servings a day, will give you the antioxidants to help strengthen your immune system.

6. Avoid crowds

Remember that coming into close contact with other people can increase your chances of catching the flu. If you’ll be traveling, wash your hands frequently and wipe down all surfaces on the plane with disinfectant wipes.

7. Consider supplements

Vitamin C, D3, and other supplements may help you prevent the flu. Be sure to talk with your doctor first about which ones are safe during pregnancy.

8. Rest and relax

Pregnant women may have restless nights these days but enough rest can strengthen your immunity. Also, a prenatal yoga class, meditation, a day at the spa, and sex can help too.

9. Get checked

If you have a high, persistent fever and other symptoms, call your physician immediately.

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