“Pregnancy nose” describes the temporary swelling and changes in the shape of a pregnant person’s nose. This common phenomenon can make the nose appear wider, more swollen, or have a “stuffy” appearance. It typically resolves after childbirth.
Understanding Pregnancy Nose
Hormonal fluctuations, primarily elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone, play a significant role. Estrogen causes blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the nose, to relax and widen. Concurrently, progesterone increases blood flow to mucous membranes, further contributing to nasal changes.
The body experiences a substantial increase in blood volume, by as much as 50%, to support the growing fetus and placenta. This increased blood volume leads to the expansion and filling of blood vessels in the nasal tissues. The lining of the nose contains mucus-producing glands and structures called inferior turbinates, which are made of erectile soft tissue; these can swell considerably when filled with extra blood. This combination of dilated blood vessels, increased blood flow, and fluid retention can result in a noticeable broadening or bulbosity at the tip of the nose, and may also cause congestion, sneezing, or a runny nose. Pregnancy nose often becomes noticeable during the second or third trimester, particularly around the 30-week mark, and can increase the nose’s size by approximately 10 to 15 percent.
Duration and Resolution
The changes associated with pregnancy nose are almost always temporary. The swelling and changes in nasal appearance typically resolve after childbirth.
For most, the nose returns to its pre-pregnancy size within a few weeks postpartum, as hormone levels stabilize and the body sheds the extra fluid accumulated during pregnancy. While some may notice a reduction in swelling within a few days to a couple of weeks after delivery, changes generally resolve completely by about six weeks postpartum.
When to Consult a Doctor
While pregnancy nose is generally a harmless and temporary cosmetic concern, certain types of swelling during pregnancy warrant medical attention. Swelling that comes on suddenly or becomes severe, especially in the hands, face, or around the eyes, should prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider.
Other concerning symptoms that may accompany swelling include high blood pressure, persistent and severe headaches, or changes in vision such as blurred vision or flashing lights. Swelling that affects only one leg and is accompanied by pain, redness, or warmth could signal a blood clot. These symptoms are not related to isolated nasal changes but are indicators of broader health conditions, such as preeclampsia, which require immediate medical evaluation and treatment.