Retrospective analysis of fever complicating pregnancy in a tertiary care center

Background: Fever during pregnancy is a common clinical problem that can arise from a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes and is associated with significant adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, including preterm labor, fetal distress, and increased neonatal morbidity and mortality. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to identify the etiological profile of fever and its associated maternal and neonatal outcomes. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at a tertiary care center over six months (July–December 2022), reviewing the hospital records of pregnant women admitted with fever >38.5°C. Of the 138 febrile pregnancies, 111 antenatal cases were included, and data on gestational age, fever etiology, maternal and antenatal complications, mode of delivery, and neonatal outcomes were analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages, with consecutive eligible admissions included. Results: Upper respiratory tract infection was the most common cause of fever (40 [36.0%]), followed by lower respiratory tract infection 32 (28.8%) and urinary tract infection (10 [9.0%]). Enteric fever, dengue, and scrub typhus accounted for five (4.5%) cases each. Spontaneous abortion and preterm delivery were observed in 14 (12.6%) patients each, fetal distress in 13 (11.7%), and oligohydramnios and premature rupture of membranes in 5 (4.5%) each. Maternal death occurred in one (0.9%) patient. Neonatal intensive care unit admission was required in 28 neonates, mainly due to prematurity or low birth weight in 14 (50.0%). Neonatal mortality occurred in five neonates, predominantly due to extreme prematurity in three (60.0%). Conclusion: Fever during pregnancy is associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity, with respiratory and urinary tract infections being the predominant etiologies of fever. Early diagnosis and timely management are crucial for improving pregnancy outcomes.