Treating Colds During Pregnancy

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

27 Oct 2006 11:16 AM

Colds are so common that most pregnant women will get one at some point during pregnancy. In general, colds are not dangerous for you or the baby. They are uncomfortable and you may need to treat the symptoms. Antibiotics won't work on colds, since they are caused by viruses.

There are numerous cold medicines on the market. Some are considered safe during pregnancy, but most are not. Always ask your doctor before taking any over the counter cold remedy to be sure it will be safe for your baby.

Decongestants, such as Sudafed are used to relieve the congestion associated with colds. Most doctors will recommend only plain Sudafed. Some will tell you to wait until after the first trimester because the baby's organs are developing during this time. Always ask your doctor before taking this.

Some cough medicines may be safe during pregnancy. Robitussin is sometimes recommended for pregnant women. The active ingredient depends on the type of cough medicine. Guaifenesin is used as an expectorant. Dextromethorphan is an active ingredient in many cough suppressants. These are used to help you sleep at night.

You will need to take medicine if you are running a fever. Fevers are dangerous to your baby. The baby is easily overheated by a high fever. Call your doctor if you are running a fever. Most will recommend Tylenol to bring down the fever. Aspirin and Ibuprofen are not considered safe for use during pregnancy.

There are many non medical remedies that may help relieve your cold symptoms. For congestion, steam may help. You can do this during the day by putting boiling water in a bowl. Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the water. Put a towel over your head and breathe in the steam.

A humidifier may help relieve your congestion at night. Place the humidifier near the bed, so you can breathe in the mist and get the most benefit. The main concern with humidifiers is that mold can grow inside. Always clean the humidifier after each use and change the water. This will help prevent the growth of mold.

Saline drops can help relieve nasal congestion. These are sold in most drug stores and are safe for use during pregnancy. Place a few drops of the solution in your nose and wait about ten minutes. Then blow your nose to help you breathe easier.

Chicken soup is an old time home remedy. Research suggests that this actually is a good remedy for colds. Enjoy a warm bowl of chicken soup to help you feel better. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Water or hot tea with lemon and honey may help you feel better.

When to Call the Doctor:

* You have a high fever

* A severe sore throat

* Your symptoms are getting worse, not better

* Trouble breathing

* Persistent cough that isn't getting better

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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Miriam Caldwell (8030) 10 Nov 2006 07:14 PM

I would double check with your doctor on Sudafed. It was allowed in my last two pregnancies, but not my current one. My husband said that they changed the formula, so I would just double check to be on the safe side.

Pattie Hughes (7652) 20 Nov 2006 10:21 PM

Thanks for that comment. I just had a baby three months ago and was told Sudafed was fine. I never took it because it makes me jittery and unable to sleep.