Is high white blood cell count in pregnant women inflammation?

A high white blood cell count in a pregnant woman's blood routine may indicate inflammation or a physiological response during pregnancy. Elevated white blood cells are mainly related to factors such as infection, stress response, and physiological changes during pregnancy, and should be comprehensively judged based on clinical symptoms and other examinations.

1. Physiological elevation during pregnancy

White blood cell count may slightly increase to 10-16 × 10 ⁹/L in the middle and late stages of pregnancy, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. This is related to increased blood volume and active bone marrow hematopoietic function during pregnancy, usually without symptoms of infection such as fever. The proportion of neutrophils may be slightly increased but their morphology is normal. No special treatment is required, regular monitoring is sufficient.

2. Bacterial infection

Bacterial infection is a common cause of pathological leukocytosis, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, local redness, swelling, and pain. Urinary tract infections and respiratory tract infections are more common in pregnant women. It is necessary to complete the examination of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, etc. After diagnosis, pregnancy B antibiotics such as cefixime granules and amoxicillin clavulanate potassium tablets can be used under the guidance of a doctor.

3. Viral Infection

In the early stages of viral infection, there may be an increase in white blood cells, but it is usually accompanied by an increase in the proportion of lymphocytes. Influenza virus and respiratory syncytial virus infection may cause symptoms such as sore throat and cough. Antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir capsules can be used according to medical advice, while monitoring the dynamic changes in blood routine.

4. Stress response

Pre delivery anxiety, severe morning sickness, or trauma may trigger stress-induced leukocytosis. This elevation is mostly temporary, accompanied by sympathetic nervous system excitation such as increased heart rate. After targeted treatment such as psychological counseling and fluid replacement, the indicators can gradually return to normal.

5. Hematological disorders

In rare cases, leukemia and bone marrow proliferative tumors can lead to abnormal increases in white blood cells, which may be accompanied by anemia and thrombocytopenia. When immature cells are found on peripheral blood smears, bone marrow puncture examination is required. After diagnosis, specialized treatment in hematology is needed. Pregnant women should avoid self medication when high white blood cell count is detected. It is recommended to maintain sufficient rest, drink 1500-2000 milliliters of water daily, and pay attention to perineal hygiene to prevent urinary tract infections. If discomfort such as fever and abdominal pain occurs, seek medical attention promptly. It is recommended to choose the same medical institution for a follow-up blood routine examination to ensure comparability of test results. Eating a moderate amount of fresh vegetables and fruits such as broccoli and kiwi, which are rich in vitamin C, can enhance immunity.