If you had underlying conditions such as asthma or allergies prior to becoming pregnant, you may find that their symptoms get worse during pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester.
Nasal symptoms caused by pregnancy typically resolve within about 10 days after you have your baby.
Rhinitis of Pregnancy
To be considered true rhinitis of pregnancy, no other known causes such as allergies or an upper respiratory infection can be causing your symptoms. Symptoms of rhinitis during pregnancy include:
Congestion, which often causes difficulty breathing and sleeping at night Runny nose Postnasal drip Sneezing Sinus infections Ear infections Fluid in the ears (serous otitis media)
Studies have shown that pregnancy-related nasal congestion can decrease the quality of life in people who are pregnant. In severe cases, it can be dangerous for the fetus (particularly if the pregnant person has underlying asthma).
The cause of pregnancy-induced nasal symptoms is not entirely understood but has long been thought to be caused by changing hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone.
This theory might be supported by the fact that some people report nasal symptoms which coincide with their menstrual cycles. Symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis have also been reported with the use of birth control pills.
Managing Congestion
Congestion can lead to more serious conditions such as sinus infections or ear infections, which need to be treated with antibiotics. Keeping congestion under control can prevent these infections.
Nasal irrigation with a neti pot is the first-line treatment. Be sure to use distilled or boiled (and cooled) water rather than water that is straight from the tap.
Some tips for managing congestion during pregnancy include:
Drinking plenty of waterUsing a cool-mist humidifier by your bed when you sleepParticipating in light exercise (but you should not engage in new types of exercise while pregnant without prior approval from your healthcare provider)Keeping the head of your bed elevated with an extra pillow or a wedgeUsing a saline nasal spray to keep secretions thinAvoiding known allergy triggers, polluted air, chemicals, or cigarette smoke
Medications for More Severe Cases
If the measures above are not sufficient to keep your symptoms under control, you can talk to your healthcare provider about using one or more of the following medications, which may help you manage more severe cases of pregnancy rhinitis.
Nasal (Inhaled) Corticosteroids
Inhaled nasal corticosteroids are often used to control asthma during pregnancy. They may be used in some cases to control pregnancy-induced nasal symptoms.
The first choice is Rhinocort (budesonide), as studies show it is generally safe to use during pregnancy. However, if budesonide is not effective other nasal corticosteroids may be used.
Nasal Decongestants
Most nasal decongestants are not considered safe during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Nasal decongestants such as Afrin (oxymetazoline) are very effective at temporarily relieving congestion. However, they should be used sparingly if at all during pregnancy and not during the first trimester, as animal studies have shown potential risks to the fetus.
In some cases, using nasal decongestants to treat pregnancy rhinitis actually may make symptoms worse, especially if used for a prolonged period. Using nasal decongestants for more than three days in a row can lead to rebound congestion.
A Word From Verywell
While the idea of using any medication can be frightening for many pregnant women, you must remember that leaving your symptoms untreated can lead to other more serious conditions that may pose a threat to your baby’s health. Therefore, pregnancy rhinitis should always be reported to your healthcare provider so that symptoms can be properly managed.
More frequent leg cramps, need to urinate, and vaginal dischargeReduced blood pressure and libidoSwelling in the face, hands, and anklesStretch marks on the breast, buttocks, stomach, and thighsHair growth on the face, arms, and legsContinuation of heartburn, indigestion, constipation, and dry or itchy skinMore severe or regular hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and backachesMore noticeable skin pigmentation leading to dark spots on the faceLeakage of colostrum (a sort of pre-milk) from nipplesIrregular false labor leading up to childbirth
