High temperature in pregnancy

A high temperature could be a sign of a hidden infection. This could be harmful to your baby so it is important to get it checked out.

If you have a mild fever it is safe to take paracetamol. Make sure you follow the instructions on the packet for how much you can take. Try to take the lowest dose of paracetamol that works and for the shortest amount of time.

There are some painkillers you should not take while you’re pregnant. These include:

• tablets or capsules that contain added caffeine (sometimes sold with 'extra' on the label)
• tablets or capsules that contain codeine
• anti-inflammatory tablets or capsules, like ibuprofen or aspirin.
  

Some women may be advised to take a low dose of aspirin as a treatment if they have had miscarriages before or they are at risk of pre-eclampsia. It should not be taken as treatment for a fever or headache.

Find out more about drugs and medicines in pregnancy.