Is your immune system lowered or raised in pregnancy??

[danniellabella]

I got a really bad flu that lasted for 2 weeks early in my pregnancy but then for the rest of the pregnancy I was healthier than I every have been.

[bon]

The immune system is suppressed during pregnancy. Immunity on the whole is a complex area that still isn't fully understood, especially when it comes to reproduction. But there are some mechanisms that the body has so that the sperm and then the developing baby are not rejected - one of which is suppressing the immune system somewhat so that it doesn't attack the foetus. The placenta produces immunosuppressant chemicals such as progesterone and the structure of the placenta ensures that there is no actual mixing of the mother's blood supply with that of the foetus. The lining of the vagina also ensures sperm does not come into contact with the female immune system.

[Tish]

The immune system isn't one single thing, it can be selectively surpressed. For example DH has had a double lung transplant and is on immunosuppressants so his body doesn't reject the new organs, but other parts of his immune system work mostly fine. E.g. I catch colds WAY more often than him normally. It depends on the type of immunosupressant being taken I guess?

During the pregnancy I'd say that my immune system has generally been stronger than prepregnancy. I've come into contact with many, many people who have been sick this winter and the most I've felt is a bit tired for a day or so (and maybe not coincidentally craving vitamin c rich foods!).

It's an interesting area

[Shanti]

yeah it sure is something that not alot of people know about...... I'd love to find out more about it....

All i know is that it's taking me a long time to get over this cough/chest infection whereas normally i bounce back pretty fast. Maybe it's just a nasty virus

[~breeze~]

Awwwww Ren, I hope you get over it soon!

I had the flu last week but was over it within 3 days, I was so scared it was going to hang around & make labour harder than it needs to be, thank goodness it's gone!

I can answer your question for you but I always have people saying the imune system is lower when PG because "the baby takes everything" LOL

[1MOREPLZ]

technically your immune system is "switched off" during pregnancy, because as my endocrinologist explained there is a "foreign object" ie; bubby, in your body & if your immune system was "switched on" it would reject the bubba.

[Shanti]

thanks girls. that makes sense.

Danielle - omg not long to go..... eeeee!! can't wait for your announcement!