The common cold is a viral infection primarily affecting the nose and throat. These infections are common and can occur at any time, including during pregnancy. Pregnant individuals often feel concerned about becoming ill, even with a common cold, due to a desire to protect their developing baby.
Understanding Colds During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the body undergoes physiological changes, including adjustments to the immune system. The immune system naturally suppresses some functions to prevent the pregnant person’s body from rejecting the fetus. This can make individuals more susceptible to common infections like colds, and cold symptoms might feel more pronounced or last longer.
Typical cold symptoms experienced during pregnancy are similar to those outside of pregnancy, including a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, and coughing. Fatigue and mild body aches can also accompany a cold. Generally, a common cold itself is not considered harmful to the developing baby, though it can cause discomfort and inconvenience for the pregnant individual.
Safe Relief Strategies
Managing cold symptoms during pregnancy involves resting to allow the body to recover. Staying hydrated with fluids like water, clear broths, and decaffeinated teas helps thin mucus and prevent dehydration. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, soothing a sore throat and easing nasal congestion.
Gargling with warm salt water can relieve a sore throat. Saline nasal sprays or rinses are generally safe and effective for clearing nasal passages. For aches, pains, or fever, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often recommended as a safe option during pregnancy when used as directed. However, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are generally advised against, especially in the third trimester, due to potential risks to the fetus.
Some decongestants, particularly those containing pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, are often not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential concerns. Cough suppressants and expectorants should also be used with caution and only after consulting a healthcare provider. Always discuss any medication, including over-the-counter options, with a doctor or pharmacist to ensure it is appropriate for use during pregnancy.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While common colds are usually mild, certain symptoms during pregnancy warrant medical attention. A high fever, 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, should prompt a call to a healthcare provider. Persistent or severe coughing, especially if accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath, also requires evaluation.
Other concerning signs include difficulty breathing, severe body aches, or symptoms that worsen instead of improving after several days. If cold symptoms do not improve within 7 to 10 days, or if new symptoms develop, seek medical advice. These symptoms could indicate a more serious infection, such as the flu, pneumonia, or COVID-19, which may require specific treatment.
Prevention
Proactive steps reduce the risk of catching a cold during pregnancy. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water, especially after being in public places or coughing/sneezing, is effective. Avoiding close contact with sick individuals minimizes exposure to viruses.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and adequate rest, supports immune function. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pregnant individuals receive the influenza (flu) vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine. These vaccinations protect against more severe respiratory illnesses that can pose greater risks during pregnancy.