Pregnancy is the most precious time for a mother and her child. During this time, every step is taken very carefully, and women are very concerned about their health.

Many pregnant women often suffer from cold, flu, and various other illnesses during this time. Getting a cold can be quite frustrating, and you may want to take cold medication to relieve your symptoms. But the question arises regarding whether it is safe to take cold medication while pregnant or not.

Reasons behind a weakened immune system during Pregnancy:

Women having weak immune systems are more likely to suffer from cold or flu, and pregnancy can weaken the immune system. Some common reasons for this weakening are as below:.

The body is not producing as many white blood cells to fight infection, and hence it becomes more vulnerable.
Pregnant women face difficulty in clearing mucus from the body, leading to more congestion and breathing difficulties.
Increased fatigue and stress can weaken the immune system, leading to various illnesses.

Is taking Cold Medication Safe While Pregnant?

Many women experience cold and flu during their pregnancy, and they may take over-the-counter medicine such as aspirin, Tylenol, or cough syrup to relieve the symptoms.

However, some of these medications contain harmful chemicals that can harm the fetus.

It is essential to know which medication is safe before taking them.

Doctors usually recommend avoiding medication during the first trimester of pregnancy (up to 12 weeks) unless it’s essential. After the first trimester, it is okay to take some safe medications to manage cold or flu symptoms.

But you should always consult with your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.

Over-the-counter Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy:

Here are some cold medications and their ingredients to avoid during pregnancy:.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen, Naproxen
Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, and oxymetazoline
Cough suppressants, such as Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin
Painkillers such as Aspirin and Codeine

Safe Medications During Pregnancy:

Here are some cold medications that are safe to take during pregnancy:.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – Acetaminophen is an OTC medication that relieves pain and reduces fever. It is safe to take during pregnancy but should be taken in recommended doses.
Saline Nasal Sprays – Saline nasal sprays are safe to use during pregnancy. They help clear the nostrils, and they do not have any harmful effects on the baby.
Throat lozenges, honey, and lemon – These are effective over-the-counter medications that relieve sore throat and cough. It is safe to take these medications during pregnancy.
Antihistamines such as Diphenhydramine and Chlorpheniramine – These are effective in treating cold symptoms like sneezing and itching. However, it should be taken in moderation.

Natural Remedies for Cold during Pregnancy:

There are various natural remedies that you can try to manage cold symptoms during pregnancy:.

Drink plenty of fluids – Drinking fluids helps in flushing out toxins from the body
Rest – Resting helps the body to fight against cold
Humidifier – Adding moisture to the air can help relieve nasal congestion
Steam Inhalation – Inhaling steam can reduce nasal congestion
Warm compresses – Apply warm compresses to reduce symptoms such as headaches and earaches
Menthol rubs – Use menthol-containing rubs to decongest the nose and relieve coughing
Herbal teas – Drinking herbal teas like mint, chamomile, ginger, or lemon can help to relieve a sore throat and fatigue.

Conclusion:

Cold medication can be harmful if you are pregnant. It is essential to follow the prescribed medication by your doctor and take only recommended doses. Before taking medication, talk to your doctor about the safety of the medication for you and your baby.

Home remedies such as rest, hydration, and natural remedies should be tried first. If your symptoms worsen, consult your doctor for medical treatment.