Caring for the body during pregnancy is extremely important, since the immune system's attention is divided and many internal organs are shifting or operating differently. Supporting an extra life is a big undertaking for a woman's body and many complications can results from even the simplest virus. "Pregnancy can increase your risk for flu complications such as pneumonia," says Dr. Gelfand of WebMD.
Although the best course of action is to avoid getting sick in the first place, sometimes this is not possible. It's difficult for any woman to make it through nine entire months without catching something. Treatments, though limited, are available to those who need them during pregnancy.
What To Avoid
What makes treating a cold or flu virus during pregnancy different, however, is the fact that many over-the-counter drugs are considered unsafe. Some drugs contain ingredients that can pass through the placenta and harm the developing fetus, which isn't strong enough to defend itself against these elements.
The following medications should be avoided during pregnancy, as they have been linked to birth defects or other complications in animal studies (Gelfand):
- anti-inflammatory drugs: aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen.
- decongestants: Pseudoephedrine is unsafe to use during the first trimester.
- expectorants and cough suppressants: guaifenesin, dextromethorphan.
- antihistamines: diphenhydramine.
- vaccinations: FluMist (nasal spray flu vaccine). Flu shots are considered safe, however.
Safe and Natural Treatments
Finding treatments that are effective and safe can be a challenge. Some over-the-counter medicines are safe for the developing fetus. As always, a doctor should be contacted before using any medications, but the following symptoms can be treated with these steps.
- pain and fever - Headaches, body aches, and mild fevers can all be treated with pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory acetominophen (regular strength Tylenol). Be sure to take only the recommended dosage and seek medical attention if pain or fever increases (Montgomery). Ice or heat can be applied to aching muscles for 20 minutes or less and sometimes topical creams like Bengay or Icy Hot are safe to use. Treat a fever with lukewarm showers or baths and lots of fluids.
- congestion - To combat that unpleasant congested feeling, pregnant woman should try natural treatments rather than reach for the decongestants which can inflame mucous membranes during pregnancy. Drink plenty of fluids to keep nasal secretions thin, use saline nasal spray, use steam to relieve pressure (showers, facial steamers), try Vicks vapor rub beneath the nose, and use a room vaporizer or humidifier (Montgomery). Pseudophedrine may be recommended to those pregnant women past the first trimester.
- coughing - To ease dry coughing and a ticklish throat, hard candies and honey-based throat lozenges are safe to use and offer some relief. Steaming, using a humidifier, and moisturizing the nasal passages with a saline spray will help soothe pain as well.
- allergy symptoms - Sneezing and watery eyes due to allergies can make a pregnant woman miserable. Antihistamine treatments such as chlorpheniramine and loratadine have been shown to safely help with allergies during the second and third trimester.
When treating cold or flu symptoms during pregnancy, it's important to carefully read the ingredients of the product and consult with a doctor before using anything. Always follow the suggested dosage amounts to avoid complications, and don't use any medicines longer than recommended.
References:
- Gelfand, J. "Pregnancy and Flu." WebMD. Retrieved November 17, 2009.
- Montgomery, N. "Pregnancy and Over-the-Counter Medicines." A Healthy Me. Retrieved November 19, 2009.
Stephanie Haddad - Stephanie Haddad is a freelance writer living in the Boston area with her husband, their dog, and their new daughter. She focuses her work ...
