Norovirus, known as the “stomach flu,” is a highly contagious virus causing gastroenteritis. While it typically resolves within a few days for most individuals, it can be a particular concern during pregnancy. The primary issue for pregnant individuals is not the virus itself, but the potential for severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Careful symptom management and prompt medical attention are important for maternal and fetal well-being.
How Norovirus Affects Pregnant Individuals
Norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headaches, body aches, chills, or a low-grade fever. These symptoms typically appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last one to three days. During pregnancy, the body’s increased demand for fluids and nutrients makes dehydration a greater concern. Profuse vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Severe dehydration reduces blood volume, potentially impacting placental blood flow and indirectly affecting the developing pregnancy, and the intense discomfort can also be physically and emotionally taxing.
Managing Symptoms During Pregnancy
Aggressive rehydration is the main focus when norovirus strikes during pregnancy. Drinking small, frequent sips of water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions is highly recommended to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Rest is important, and consuming small, easy-to-digest meals like plain toast or cereal can help regain strength. Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve. Seek medical attention for:
Signs of severe dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, infrequent urination)
Inability to keep fluids down
Persistent high fever
Severe stomach pain
Bloody stools
Concerns about fetal movement
Over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications are generally not recommended during pregnancy, but acetaminophen can be used for fever or aches after consulting a doctor.
Preventing Norovirus Infection
Norovirus is highly contagious, spreading easily through direct contact, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces; a very small number of viral particles can cause infection. Individuals can shed the virus for up to two weeks or longer, even after symptoms resolve. Prevention methods include:
Meticulous handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is a primary defense, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against norovirus.
Thoroughly rinsing fruits and vegetables and cooking shellfish completely to prevent foodborne transmission.
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces with bleach-based cleaners, particularly if someone in the household is ill.
Avoiding sharing personal items like utensils or towels.
Limiting contact with infected individuals can further reduce the risk of transmission.
Potential Effects on the Baby
Norovirus itself is generally not known to directly cross the placenta or cause birth defects or harm to the fetus, as the placenta acts as a protective barrier preventing most pathogens from reaching the developing baby. However, severe maternal complications from norovirus, such as significant dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and high fever, can indirectly pose risks to the pregnancy. Profound dehydration can lead to reduced blood flow to the placenta, potentially affecting the baby’s environment. In severe cases, extreme dehydration or a prolonged high fever has been associated with an increased risk of preterm contractions or preterm labor. While these indirect risks are serious, with prompt and proper hydration and medical care, the overall risk to the baby from a norovirus infection is generally low.