Experiencing a common cold during childbirth can add discomfort, but it is generally not a major complication for the birthing parent or newborn. While pregnancy can make individuals more susceptible to common viruses, these typically do not directly threaten the labor and delivery process.
Effects on the Birthing Parent
A cold can significantly impact the birthing parent’s experience during labor by increasing physical discomfort. Nasal congestion, coughing, and sneezing become more challenging to manage with contractions. These symptoms can intensify fatigue, making the physically demanding process of labor feel harder. The need to clear nasal passages or suppress coughs can disrupt breathing patterns and concentration, potentially making pain management more difficult. Rest and hydration become important for managing these combined stressors.
Effects on the Newborn
The common cold virus can transmit from the birthing parent to the newborn. While a newborn’s immune system is still developing, they receive passive immunity, including protective antibodies, from the birthing parent.
Symptoms of a cold in a newborn often include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, fussiness, and sometimes a low-grade fever. Nasal discharge may start clear and thin, later becoming thicker and yellowish-green, which is a normal progression and does not necessarily indicate worsening illness. Most common colds in newborns are mild and resolve within 10 to 14 days without serious complications.
However, due to their immature immune systems, newborns, especially those under three months old, require close monitoring. A cold can sometimes progress to more serious conditions like bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or croup. Practicing frequent handwashing and avoiding coughing or sneezing directly on the baby can help minimize transmission post-birth. Breastfeeding can also continue to provide antibodies to the newborn.
Managing Cold Symptoms During Labor
Managing cold symptoms during labor focuses on providing comfort and alleviating distress. Healthcare providers can recommend safe over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms without adverse effects on the labor process or the baby. Acetaminophen is safe for pain relief and reducing mild fever. For nasal congestion, saline nasal sprays are effective for clearing passages and easing breathing. Certain antihistamines and cough suppressants, such as dextromethorphan, may also be approved by a healthcare provider.
It is important to avoid multi-symptom cold medications, as they often contain ingredients not recommended during pregnancy, such as oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, and NSAIDs like ibuprofen.
Beyond medication, comfort measures can provide relief. Applying warm compresses to the face or chest can soothe sinus pressure, while cool compresses on the forehead or neck can help with general discomfort and overheating during labor. Maintaining hydration by sipping water or clear fluids and using a humidifier can also alleviate congestion and throat irritation. Hospital staff can assist in implementing these measures.
Preventing Colds Before Birth
Proactive measures can reduce the risk of contracting a cold before childbirth. Regular hand hygiene is a defense against viral transmission. Frequent handwashing with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, helps remove viruses.
Avoiding close contact with sick individuals is important. This includes maintaining physical distance and refraining from sharing utensils or personal items. Ensuring adequate rest supports the immune system.
Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet provides nutrients to support immune function. Discussing recommended vaccinations with a healthcare provider, such as the influenza (flu) vaccine and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine, can offer protection against other respiratory illnesses.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
While common colds are usually mild, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention, especially during late pregnancy or for a newborn. For the birthing parent, a fever exceeding 100.4°F (38°C), severe body aches, chest pain, or difficulty breathing should prompt a call to a healthcare provider. Worsening symptoms or those that persist beyond 10 to 14 days also indicate a need for professional medical evaluation.
For the newborn, any signs of illness, particularly in babies younger than three months old, should be reported to a pediatrician. Concerns include a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, difficulty breathing, a persistent cough, or any bluish tint to the lips or skin. Reduced feeding, decreased wet diapers (indicating dehydration), or unusual lethargy in the newborn also necessitate prompt medical consultation. Always seek professional medical advice for concerns rather than attempting self-diagnosis or treatment.