Swine flu in pregnant women and babies

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If you're pregnant or have a new baby, it's likely that all the news about swine flu is making you worried.

It's important to remember that while there is a risk of you catching swine flu, for the majority of people the symptoms are mild and they recover within a few days.

goodtoknow spoke to Angela Horler, a midwife with North Surrey Midwives, to get the latest advice on how swine flu could affect you or your newborn.

Are pregnant women at higher risk of getting swine flu?

Yes. When you're pregnant your immune system is naturally lower, which means you're more likely to pick up bugs and viruses like swine flu.

It also means that if you get swine flu, there is a small risk of complications. But most women who get it will just have mild symptoms and will recover quickly.

How will I know if I've got swine flu?

Symptoms for swine flu are normal to seasonal flu. See our have I got swine flu page to check your symptoms

What should I do if I think I've got swine flu?

Contact your GP over the phone - they'll be able to diagnose you and prescribe appropriate medication. If you have got swine flu, you'll need a 'flu friend' - a healthy friend or relative - who can pick up the medication for you.

Swine flu will affect different women in different ways - it'll be more severe for some than others - so the doctors will look at every case individually.

You can take paracetamol while you're pregnant - but follow packet guidelines. It'll help keep your temperature down which is good - it's not good for your baby if you're overheated. Drink lots of fluids and keep as cool as possible.

What should I do to lower the risk of getting swine flu?

There are ways to naturally increase your immunity. If you're worried you've been in contact with someone with swine flu, then boost your vitamin C intake by taking a 1000mg effervescent vitamin C tablet once a day for a week.

Also increase onion and garlic in your diet - both will boost your immunity.

You should generally try to eat a good diet, get lots of rest and take good care of yourself - all the things that pregnant women are generally advised to do.

Some experts are recommending that you avoid public transport at peak times. You can use general common sense when deciding where to go - swine flu is increasing but life has to continue.

If someone you've been in contact with has been unwell, check if they've got swine flu to see if you could be at risk, make sure friends you're visiting are well and wash your hands after you've been in public places.

Read on for information about swine flu and young babies

By Katie McPhillimy