SHAHEDNEWS: When you catch a cold during pregnancy, try not to use any medication without consulting a doctor, as it could potentially harm both the mother and the fetus.
According to SHAHEDNEWS, When you're pregnant, anything that happens to you affects not only your body but also the baby, making the illness more complicated. In the past, if you had a cold or the flu, you would take medication.
But now, you may be wondering if it's safe to do so under these circumstances. While medications can relieve symptoms, you don’t want them to cause issues for your baby. Many medications can be used during pregnancy, so treating a cold or the flu during pregnancy doesn't have to be a stressful experience.
Medications specifically for treating a cold during pregnancy should only be taken under a doctor’s guidance. According to the University of Michigan's health system, it’s best to avoid all medications during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This is a crucial period for your baby’s vital organs to develop. Many doctors recommend caution after 28 weeks as well. Before taking any medication, consult your doctor if you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant.
After 12 weeks of pregnancy, many medications are considered safe. These include:
- Applying menthol to the chest, temples, and under the nose.
- Nasal strips with sticky pads that open airways.
- Cough drops and tablets.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain, aches, and fever.
- Frequent urination during the day.
- Calcium carbonate (Mylanta, Tums) or similar medications for heartburn, nausea, or stomach discomfort.
- Simple cough syrup.
Avoid taking medications that combine multiple ingredients to tackle various symptoms. Instead, choose a single medication for the specific symptoms you're dealing with. Also, avoid the following medications, as they can increase risks:
- Aspirin (Bayer)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
- Codeine
- Bactrim, antibiotics
When you fall ill during pregnancy, the first steps should include:
- Resting
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Gargling with warm saltwater if you have a sore throat
If your symptoms worsen, you might want to try:
- Nasal sprays and sprays to loosen nasal mucus and relieve nasal congestion
- Inhaling warm, moist steam to clear congestion
- Chicken soup, which helps reduce inflammation and congestion
- Adding honey or lemon to a warm cup of tea for soothing sore throats
- Using cold and warm compresses to relieve pain
- Drink plenty of hot liquids, with onion and garlic soup being the best.
- Hot soup made with onions, garlic, and a bit of pepper is very effective for clearing airways.
- Lavender steam is a safe remedy for colds during pregnancy. It opens airways and clears nasal congestion. Add five drops of lavender oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale for 15 minutes.
Cold and flu share similar symptoms, such as coughing and runny nose. However, there are some differences that allow you to distinguish between them. If your symptoms are generally mild, you probably have a cold. Cold and fatigue are commonly associated with the flu.
Pregnancy weakens the immune system, making expectant mothers more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections. Pregnant women are also at higher risk of pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections. Getting the flu vaccine reduces the risk of infection and complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, getting the flu vaccine helps protect pregnant women and their babies for up to six months after birth. Therefore, it is crucial for pregnant women to keep their vaccination schedule up to date.
Some actions you can take to reduce your risk of getting sick include:
- Frequently washing your hands
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating healthy foods
- Avoiding close contact with sick family members or friends
- Regular exercise
- Reducing stress
While most colds don't cause harm to the baby, they should still be taken seriously. Flu increases the risk of premature birth and congenital defects. Seek immediate medical help if you experience:
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Vaginal bleeding
- Confusion
- Severe vomiting
- High fever that doesn't decrease with acetaminophen
- Decreased fetal movement
The CDC recommends that pregnant women with the flu be treated with antiviral medications. Always contact your doctor if you have any questions.
