Pregnancy is such a wonderful time, full of hope and anticipation—but it does come with a few surprises, such as catching a pesky cold. Although many over-the-counter cold medications are safe during pregnancy, it’s crucial to take precautions and consult with your doctor beforehand.
During pregnancy, your immune system changes to shield your baby, which means you might become more susceptible to catching colds or the flu. To treat symptoms, medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain and aches, dextromethorphan (in Robitussin) for coughing, and menthol products like Vicks for congestion are typically safe options. Just make sure to read labels closely and do not exceed suggested doses.
You’ll want to be especially cautious with medicines that have multiple ingredients. Some cold remedies include things that aren’t great during pregnancy. For example, decongestants like pseudoephedrine should be avoided in the first trimester because they might raise the risk of birth defects. Also, it’s best to stay away from NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin, as they can affect how the baby develops.
If you’d prefer to experiment with natural remedies, there are a few easy things that can make your symptoms better. Staying hydrated, employing a humidifier, and gargling warm salt water can give you relief. Increasing your vitamin C levels and getting plenty of rest are excellent, too.
If allergies are included in the issue, certain antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are safe to take during pregnancy. Nasal sprays containing steroids, such as Flonase, can also assist with no harm to your baby.
Just keep in mind that no drug is entirely risk-free during pregnancy, so always consult with your healthcare provider about what you should do. They can provide you with specific advice based on the latest evidence and your unique health. Staying healthy means staying healthy for your baby, and with the appropriate care, you can weather cold season feeling healthy and well-taken-care-of.
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