Experiencing a cough during pregnancy can be a source of discomfort and concern for expectant mothers. While coughs are a common occurrence for anyone, the physiological changes during pregnancy can sometimes make them feel more pronounced or raise questions about their impact on the developing baby. Understanding the common reasons for a cough and safe approaches to relief can help alleviate anxieties.
Common Causes of Cough During Pregnancy
Coughs during pregnancy often stem from the same causes as in non-pregnant individuals, though hormonal changes can make pregnant individuals more susceptible. Viral infections, such as the common cold, influenza (flu), or even COVID-19, are frequent culprits. These infections inflame respiratory passages, triggering the cough reflex to clear irritants and mucus.
Allergies can also cause a persistent cough, often with symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Pregnancy itself can sometimes heighten allergic sensitivities or cause a condition known as pregnancy rhinitis, where hormonal shifts lead to nasal congestion and post-nasal drip, which can then induce a cough. Asthma, a pre-existing condition, may also worsen during pregnancy, manifesting as increased coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, is another common cause, often presenting as a dry, chronic cough, especially when lying down. Less commonly, pertussis (whooping cough), a bacterial infection characterized by severe coughing fits followed by a distinct “whooping” sound, can occur and poses a serious risk.
Safe Home Remedies for Cough Relief
Managing a cough during pregnancy often begins with simple, effective home remedies that can soothe symptoms without medication. Staying well-hydrated with plenty of fluids, such as water, warm teas, or clear broths, helps thin mucus and moisten the throat. Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can alleviate dry coughs and ease nasal congestion, making breathing more comfortable.
Gargling with warm salt water can relieve a sore throat that accompanies a cough by reducing inflammation and clearing irritants. Consuming honey, alone or mixed into warm liquids like lemon tea, can soothe an irritated throat and suppress coughing. Elevating the head while sleeping with extra pillows can help reduce post-nasal drip and GERD-related coughs by preventing stomach acid from flowing back.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many coughs during pregnancy resolve with home care, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, especially if it persists or is accompanied by chills, should prompt a call to your healthcare provider. Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chest pain are concerning signs requiring prompt evaluation.
A persistent cough lasting more than a week, especially if it worsens or does not improve, requires medical assessment. Coughing up colored phlegm (green, yellow, or bloody), wheezing, or a cough accompanied by a distinct “whooping” sound are also reasons to contact your doctor. Signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination or excessive thirst, also require medical consultation. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying infection, like pneumonia or uncontrolled asthma, requiring professional diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.
Safe Medications and Treatments
When home remedies are not sufficient, certain over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications may be considered for cough relief during pregnancy, always under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, even OTC, to ensure its safety during pregnancy. Combination cold products that treat multiple symptoms should be avoided, as they may contain ingredients not suitable for pregnancy.
Dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) and guaifenesin (an expectorant that thins mucus) are generally considered safer options for cough relief. However, some studies suggest a possible link between their use in early pregnancy and certain birth defects, though the overall risk remains low. Decongestants like pseudoephedrine are generally not recommended, especially in the first trimester, and phenylephrine should be avoided. Medications containing codeine or high levels of alcohol should be avoided. For allergies contributing to cough, antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine may be safer options under medical guidance.
Potential Impact on Pregnancy
Most common coughs, such as those caused by a cold, pose little direct risk to the developing baby. The baby is well-protected within the womb and typically does not experience the mother’s cough symptoms. Coughing itself, even severe bouts, usually does not cause uterine contractions or directly harm the fetus.
However, severe or uncontrolled infections that cause a cough, such as influenza or pneumonia, can pose risks. Pregnant individuals are more susceptible to severe illness from the flu, which in rare cases, could lead to complications like pneumonia, premature labor, or reduced oxygen supply. Similarly, uncontrolled conditions like severe asthma or pertussis (whooping cough) could impact pregnancy outcomes if not managed effectively. Seeking timely medical care for a severe or persistent cough helps address any underlying issues, supporting a healthy pregnancy.