Allergies represent an immune system response where the body mistakenly identifies a typically harmless substance, known as an allergen, as a threat. This triggers reactions ranging from mild to severe, affecting various bodily systems. Pregnancy brings about significant physiological changes, and these shifts can influence how a woman’s body perceives and reacts to allergens. This understanding helps individuals navigate potential allergic responses.
How Pregnancy Influences Allergy Development
Pregnancy induces profound hormonal and immunological changes that can alter a woman’s allergic sensitivities. It is possible for new allergies to develop during pregnancy, though pre-existing allergies more frequently change in intensity or remain stable. Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone play a significant role in this process, directly influencing mast cells, which are immune cells involved in allergic reactions.
The immune system undergoes specific adaptations to accommodate the developing fetus, which is immunologically distinct from the mother. This adjustment involves a complex modulation of immune pathways, potentially shifting the balance in a way that can inadvertently affect allergic reactions. For example, the immune system may become more tolerant in some aspects to prevent rejection of the fetus, yet in others, it might heighten its allergy-triggering potential.
The impact of pregnancy on allergies is highly individual, with approximately one-third of pregnant individuals experiencing a worsening of symptoms, another third reporting improvement, and the remaining third observing no change. These varied responses highlight the intricate and sometimes unpredictable nature of the body’s adaptation during gestation.
Identifying Allergy Symptoms During Pregnancy
If new allergies develop or existing ones change during pregnancy, the symptoms experienced are generally similar to those outside of pregnancy. Common manifestations include itchy, watery eyes, frequent sneezing, a sore or itchy throat, and a runny nose. Nasal congestion, coughing, and even wheezing can also occur, indicating potential respiratory involvement. Skin reactions such as hives or eczema may also emerge or worsen during this time.
These allergy symptoms can sometimes be confused with common pregnancy discomforts, particularly nasal congestion. Many pregnant individuals, up to 42%, experience pregnancy rhinitis, a condition characterized by a stuffy or runny nose that is not caused by allergies or infection. This congestion is primarily due to increased blood flow to mucous membranes, leading to nasal swelling. Unlike allergic rhinitis, pregnancy rhinitis typically lacks the hallmark itching of the eyes, nose, or throat, and it usually resolves within a few weeks after childbirth.
Allergies can be triggered by various substances, including environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. Food allergies, though less common to develop for the first time during pregnancy, can also manifest with symptoms ranging from digestive issues to skin rashes. Medications can also cause allergic reactions, emphasizing the importance of careful monitoring of any new symptoms.
Navigating Allergy Diagnosis and Management in Pregnancy
If a pregnant individual suspects new or worsening allergy symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider is a sensible first step. Proper diagnosis is important to differentiate allergies from other pregnancy-related conditions, such as pregnancy rhinitis. For allergy testing, blood tests are generally preferred during pregnancy, as they pose no risk of systemic allergic reaction.
Management strategies focus on minimizing exposure to known allergens. This can involve practical measures such as showering and changing clothes after spending time outdoors, regularly cleaning the home, and using air conditioning to filter out airborne allergens. Avoiding environmental triggers like tobacco smoke, strong odors, and car exhaust can also help alleviate symptoms. Dietary restrictions to prevent allergies in the baby are not recommended, as evidence suggests they are ineffective and could compromise maternal nutrition.
When medication is necessary, several options are generally considered safe during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester. Oral antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are frequently recommended, with chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) also cited as safe choices. For nasal symptoms, corticosteroid nasal sprays such as budesonide (Rhinocort), fluticasone (Flonase), and mometasone (Nasonex) are typically deemed safe and effective. Saline nasal sprays offer a non-medicated option for congestion relief.
Conversely, decongestant nasal sprays and oral decongestants are generally advised against, especially in the first trimester, due to potential risks. If a woman was already receiving allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) before pregnancy, maintenance treatment can usually continue, but initiating new immunotherapy during pregnancy is typically not advised.