What causes raised body temperature during pregnancy?
Patient: Hi, I am 20 weeks pregnant and having raised temperature (37 degrees celsius = 98.6 fahrenheit) while my normal temperature (before pregnancy, in the period before the ovulation was around 36.2-36.4 celsius (97.16 - 97.52 fahrenheit). I know that in the 1st trimester teh raised temperature is a good sign of hormones doing their job.... but how long the elevated temperature should stay? Is that temperature normal in week 20? or is it a sign of some infection? Thank you for your answer. Doctor: Hello dear,I understand your concern.In my opinion the raise of body temperature of about 0.1 or 0.2 degrees might not be significant.The normal body temperature is 38.4 degree C or 98.6 degree F .The body temperature is dependant on the basal metabolic rate(BMR).So considering the above values your temperature raise is insignificant.Anything more than 99 degree with any associated symptoms might be significant.So relax.There will be increased basal metabolic rate in pregnancy so it might also cause the raise of body temperature.Take healthy nutritional diet and adequate fluids upto 3 litres per day.Urinary tract infections(UTI) are common in pregnancy so taking adequate fluids will prevent them.Nothing to worry.Hope this helps.Best regards...