A sore throat during pregnancy is a common occurrence that can cause discomfort. Pregnancy can lower the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections that cause sore throats. Beyond infections, other pregnancy-related factors like acid reflux or increased nasal congestion can also contribute to throat irritation. Understanding safe approaches to relief is important for managing symptoms effectively during this time.
Safe Home Remedies for Relief
Warm salt water gargles soothe a sore throat. Dissolving about half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and gargling several times a day can help reduce swelling and discomfort; it also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Staying hydrated by drinking fluids like water, clear broths, and warm, non-caffeinated herbal teas helps keep the throat moist and eases irritation. Chamomile tea with honey is often recommended for its soothing qualities. Avoid honey if you have allergies to it, propolis, or pollen.
Using a cool-mist humidifier in your room can add moisture to the air to alleviate dryness and irritation. Resting adequately allows the body to conserve energy and focus on healing, beneficial during pregnancy. Sucking on throat lozenges or hard candies can provide temporary relief by stimulating saliva production, moistening the throat. Consider sugar-free varieties, especially if managing gestational diabetes.
Consuming soft, soothing foods like soups, mashed potatoes, or yogurt are gentler on a sore throat. Pomegranate juice mixed with honey can also offer relief due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, and honey’s ability to lubricate the throat. Diluted apple cider vinegar with warm water and honey is another option for its antimicrobial properties. Proper dilution is advised to avoid excessive consumption.
Over-the-Counter Options
When home remedies alone are not enough, certain over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be considered for sore throat relief during pregnancy, but always consult a healthcare provider. Acetaminophen, known as Tylenol, is a safe option for managing pain and reducing fever during pregnancy. It works by affecting the body’s pain and temperature regulation centers. Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary, and avoid exceeding the recommended daily maximum.
Certain throat sprays and lozenges offer localized relief. Sprays containing benzocaine, a local anesthetic, can numb the throat, while those with menthol or phenol act as antiseptics to soothe discomfort. Lozenges often contain menthol or other soothing agents that temporarily ease throat soreness. When selecting these products, review ingredients to ensure they are safe for use during pregnancy, and discuss concerns with a doctor or pharmacist.
Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy
Several common medications and active ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (e.g., Aleve), are not recommended. NSAID use, particularly in the third trimester (after 28 weeks), is contraindicated due to risks of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the fetus, a blood vessel that connects the aorta and pulmonary artery, and potential kidney dysfunction. Some studies also suggest a possible increased risk of miscarriage in early pregnancy with NSAID use.
Certain decongestants, including pseudoephedrine (e.g., Sudafed) and phenylephrine (e.g., Sudafed PE), are advised against, especially during the first trimester. Oral decongestants like phenylephrine can cause vasoconstriction, which can reduce blood flow to the uterus and impact fetal development. While some studies on pseudoephedrine have suggested a possible link to gastroschisis, an abdominal wall defect. Due to concerns about reduced placental blood flow, it is recommended to avoid these ingredients throughout pregnancy.
Cough suppressants like dextromethorphan (e.g., Delsym) and expectorants like guaifenesin (e.g., Mucinex) are found in many cough and cold formulations. While some sources indicate they are considered safe during pregnancy, some studies have suggested a possible link between early pregnancy use and certain birth defects, including brain, spinal, heart, intestinal, and musculoskeletal issues. Prioritize single-ingredient medications to treat specific symptoms and avoid combination products that may contain ingredients not recommended for pregnancy. Many liquid cold medications contain alcohol, which should be avoided entirely during pregnancy.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many sore throats during pregnancy are minor and resolve with home care, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. A healthcare provider should be contacted if a sore throat is severe, unrelenting, or lasts for more than three days. A high fever, 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or above, especially with chills or significant malaise, signals a potential infection that requires evaluation.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing indicates a more serious condition requiring prompt medical assessment. Other concerning signs include very tender, swollen glands in the neck, white patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils, or tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, as these can indicate a bacterial infection like strep throat. If symptoms worsen despite home remedies, or if a rash or ear pain develops, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and guidance.