Stuffy or bloody noses are extremely common during pregnancy and generally do not subside until after giving birth.
What causes it?
Although nasal congestion may be the result of something unrelated to pregnancy, like allergies or a sinus infection, many expectant moms experience bloody noses for no reason besides pregnancy. As the pregnancy hormones estrogen and progesterone course through your body, they bring with them an increase in blood flow and make your tissues soften. This can cause your blood vessels to constrict, which results in congestion and bloody noses.
Tips?
If the congestion is a factor of your pregnancy as opposed to allergies or the like, be prepared for the long haul. Congestion is not likely to disappear before you give birth, but there are some things you can do to manage it. Adding a humidifier to your room may help you deal with the congestion, as would proper, gentle nose-blowing. If the congestion is bothering you too much, you may want to ask your healthcare provider for help. You should also let your provider know if you have regular nosebleeds.
Reviewed by Dr. Jamie Lo
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Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Second trimester pregnancy: What to expect.” MayoClinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Jun 2017. Web. Accessed 7/19/17. Available at http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20047732.
- G Goldstein, S Govindaraj. “Rhinologic issues in pregnancy.” Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 3(1):e13-5. Web. 2012.
