When you’re pregnant you may find your nose gets runny or bunged-up more often.
Known as rhinitis of pregnancy – the cause can be blamed on those pregnancy hormones which have been produced by the placenta. The main culprit is oestrogen, which increases mucus production. This has a knock on effect in your nose and causes the mucous membranes found inside your nasal passage to swell.
Although this nasal congestion can occur at any time of the pregnancy it usually begins in the first trimester and can last from a few weeks to the full nine months. However, there’s no need to worry - it’s a niggle that one in five moms-to-be experience and although it can be irritating, it won’t be harmful to you or your growing little one.
What are the symptoms of Congestion in moms-to be?
You may find you’re sneezing more than usual and your nose becomes twitchier and itchier. Some moms-to-be may find themselves reaching for the tissues to wipe their constantly streaming nose, while others may just feel stuffy and bunged up.
If your runny or stuffy nose comes with itchy eyes then you may have developed an allergy during your pregnancy so take a trip to the doctor to rule this out, or for advice on what you can take to help ease these symptoms.
Likewise, a green or yellow mucus may also suggest a virus or a bacterial infection - sinus infections are common in pregnancy- so seek medical advice if you are concerned.
What are the treatments and remedies of Congestion in moms-to be?
It’s advised pregnant women steer away from using decongestants, however if you’re really suffering speak to your doctor who may be able to prescribe you something suitable.
In the meantime why not try steam inhalation, which is said to help congestion by loosening mucus and making it easier to blow your nose. It’s also a great way to give yourself a mini facial!
Sit with your head over a bowl of hot water and place a towel over your head, close your eyes and breathe deeply.
Gargling with salt water could also help settle nasal congestion. If you don’t fancy getting vocal then try nasal saline drops, which contain salt water and can work in a similar way to gargling.
This guide
This article is not meant to substitute medical advice provided by a practicing medical professional - if you have any concerns, contact your physician immediately.