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Swine Flu, IVF and pregnancy


Can I continue IVF treatment if I have swine flu?

By taking the correct precautions against the H1N1 virus, you can reduce the chance of catching the illness.

Unless recommended otherwise, women can continue with any method of infertility treatment during the H1N1 outbreak.

It is worth remembering that successful IVF treatment depends not only on the treatment itself but also the overall health and immune system of the patient. Swine flu, as seasonal influenza, lowers the immune system. Women who are due to start a new treatment cycle may choose to delay IVF until they recover. 

Should pregnant/women trying to conceive have the swine flu vaccine?

The swine flu, H1N1 flu pandemic is of a great concern to pregnant women and women trying to conceive.

As the vaccinations against H1N1 are new, there is no research to show the long term effects on unborn children, however doctors believe there is little risk of the vaccination causing harm to the mother or child.

Doctors recommend that pregnant women receive the vaccine against H1N1 to protect themselves but also to immunise the unborn child. Women trying to conceive could consider this advice to be applicable to themselves.

Not everybody is eligible for the swine flu vaccination and individual patients should consult their fertility doctor if considering immunisation against swine flu while receiving IVF treatment.

Does swine flu cause miscarriage?

The H1N1 virus itself does not increase the risk of miscarriage any more than seasonal flu.

However, while the virus alone does not cause miscarriage, swine flu is more dangerous for pregnant women.

A fever of over 101 degrees increases the risk of miscarriage if the temperature is not lowered quickly.

If you notice any symptoms of swine flu, contact a doctor for advice immediately. 

Swine flu risk in Mexico

The World Health Organization (WHO) has not placed any restrictions on travel due to the swine flu, H1N1 influenza pandemic. It is generally believed that the risk of swine flu is highest in Mexico. This is misleading. Initial cases of the 2009 H1N1 type A influenza outbreak were diagnosed in Mexico, however since then the virus has spread worldwide and the risk in Mexico is no higher than the risk in any other country. Travel to and from Mexico is not restricted however each country has the right to refuse entry to anyone with swine flu symptoms.

Symptoms of swine flu

The symptoms of H1N1 influenza are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu:

fatigue
headache
sore throat
shortness of breath
aching muscles
loss of appetite

If you experience chills or a fever and any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice.

Am I at risk?

Patients who are undergoing fertility treat are not at increased risk of swine flu. Generally, women who are trying to conceive have strong bodies and health immune systems which help fight off the virus. 

 

People in categories listed below are at increased risk of swine flu: 

  • Children and babies

  • Elderly

  • Pregnant women

  • Patients with weakened immune systems

  • People who are suffering from lung diseases, heart conditions, diabetes and kidney disorders

  • Cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy/radiation therapy

 

What precautions can I take against swine flu?

Most countries are offering a vaccine against H1N1 influenza. This vaccine is advised especially for those people in high risk categories. If you are planning to start IVF treatment, or are in the middle of a treatment cycle, talk to your IVF specialist and health care provider to help you decide if the swine flu vaccination is recommended for you.

If you decide against the immunisation, there are various ways to reduce the risk of infection:

Avoid crowded areas - the more people you are in contact with, the higher the chance of catching the H1N1 virus. 

Use an alcohol based handwash -  Carry a gel-based handwash to prevent picking up the virus from contaminated surfaces

Cough/Sneeze into a tissue - to prevent the spread of the swine flu virus, always cough or sneeze into a tissue that is disposed of carefully

Wear a face mask - Health officials are undecided about whether a mask protects you from H1N1 but it is a precautionary measure you may wish to consider

Don't touch your mouth, nose, eyes - Always wash hands with soap and water before touching your face

Avoid contact with anyone who has influenza symptoms

 

 

 

 

 

 




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