In general maternal illness does not affect the baby as long as the mother's body functions remain normal. However, it is possible for infections to affect the baby independent of the mother's condition. A small number of viruses relating to the common cold known as adenoviruses have been associated with fetal infections, which may lead to fetal loss. However, most of the common cold viruses are benign and do not affect the baby, although it is important to be cautious when you are feeling under the weather, making sure to keep your body temperature at less than 1010 F. Sustained fevers of over 1010 F during the first trimester may be associated with fetal congenital defects.
