Flu Like Body Aches in Early Pregnancy: Causes & Treatment

During early pregnancy, many women experience a variety of symptoms as their bodies adjust to the hormonal changes. One lesser-known but common symptom is flu like body aches. These aches can cause discomfort and confusion, as they mimic typical flu symptoms. Understanding what causes flu like body aches in early pregnancy and how to manage them can help ease concerns.

The onset of flu like body aches in early pregnancy is often linked to hormonal fluctuations. As your body begins producing higher levels of progesterone and estrogen, it can lead to muscle aches, joint pain, and general fatigue. The immune system also lowers its defenses slightly to protect the developing baby, making the body more susceptible to aches that resemble flu-like symptoms.

While these flu-like symptoms during pregnancy are normal, they can sometimes be mistaken for actual illness. It’s important to note that while flu symptoms and pregnancy symptoms may overlap, such as fatigue and muscle pain, true flu in pregnancy comes with additional signs, like fever and respiratory issues.[1]

Recognizing the Difference Between Pregnancy and Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms in pregnancy can be concerning, especially if they are coupled with a fever, chills, or a persistent cough. However, flu like symptoms and pregnancy are often different from the typical flu. For example, during the first trimester, many women feel exhausted and experience body aches, but without the fever or respiratory issues that typically accompany the flu.

If you experience flu like body aches in early pregnancy without a fever, it's likely just a reaction to the pregnancy itself. On the other hand, if your symptoms include a high fever or difficulty breathing, it’s crucial to seek medical attention, as the actual flu during pregnancy can have risks for both the mother and the baby. Influenza virus infection has been associated with increased risk of stillbirth, making it imperative to consult a doctor if you experience any symptoms.[2] 

Pregnancy Flu Like Symptoms in the First Trimester

In the first trimester, flu like symptoms pregnancy can manifest as general malaise, similar to what one might experience with a mild case of the flu. These symptoms may include body aches, fatigue, headaches, and even slight chills. Some women report feeling like they’re "coming down with something" when, in reality, these symptoms are just a part of early pregnancy.

Flu like symptoms and pregnancy are particularly confusing during the first trimester because the body is adjusting to rapid changes. The immune system is naturally suppressed during pregnancy, which can make women feel more vulnerable to illness, even when they aren't sick.

How to Manage Flu Like Body Aches

Dealing with flu like body aches in early pregnancy can be uncomfortable, but there are ways to manage these symptoms. Hydration is key, as staying properly hydrated helps relieve muscle cramps and aches. Regular but gentle exercise, such as walking or prenatal yoga, can also keep the muscles loose and alleviate discomfort.

Rest is equally important. Since pregnancy flu like symptoms first trimester often include fatigue, giving your body the time to rest and recharge can help reduce aches. Warm baths and heating pads applied to sore muscles may also provide relief. However, it’s important to avoid taking medications like ibuprofen or aspirin without consulting a healthcare provider, as some over-the-counter medications are not safe during pregnancy.[3]

When to See a Doctor

Flu symptoms in pregnancy are not uncommon, but there are certain warning signs that should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider.

• If your flu like symptoms pregnant include a high fever, trouble breathing, or severe aches that don't improve with rest, you should contact your doctor.
• True flu during pregnancy can pose risks, including respiratory complications and preterm labor, so it's important to differentiate between pregnancy symptoms and actual illness.[4]
• If you experience flu in pregnancy symptoms and pregnancy combined with unusual pain or bleeding, it could indicate other issues unrelated to the flu, such as infections or complications with the pregnancy. Always err on the side of caution and seek medical advice if something feels off.

Final Thoughts

Flu like body aches in early pregnancy are often a normal response to the significant hormonal shifts and immune system changes occurring in your body. While these aches can resemble flu-like symptoms, they are typically harmless. However, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely, especially if you suspect you have the flu symptoms pregnancy symptoms. Staying informed about what is typical during pregnancy and what requires medical attention ensures you can manage your symptoms effectively and keep both you and your baby safe.

By recognizing the difference between flu-like symptoms and true flu symptoms, pregnancy discomfort can be managed with ease and care.

1. American Pregnancy Association. Flu During Pregnancy (https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/flu-during-pregnancy/). Accessed 09/26/2024
2. Wang R, Yan W, Du M, Tao L, Liu J. The effect of influenza virus infection on pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies. Int J Infect Dis. 2021 Apr;105:567-578. doi:10.1016/j.ijid.2021.02.095. Epub 2021 Feb 27. PMID: 33647509.
3. National Institutes of Health Office of Research on Women’s Health. Pregnant Women & Influenza (Flu) (https://orwh.od.nih.gov/research/maternal-morbidity-and-mortality/information-for-women/pregnant-women-influenza-flu). Accessed 09/26/2024
4. Mertz D, Geraci J, Winkup J, Gessner BD, Ortiz JR, Loeb M. Pregnancy as a risk factor for severe outcomes from influenza virus infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Vaccine. 2017 Jan 23;35(4):521-528. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.12.012. Epub 2016 Dec 23. PMID: 28024955; PMCID: PMC5359513.