Does your nose feel like all stuffed up? Congestion is normal during pregnancy and sometimes bloody nose may occur. Don’t worry mommies as you are on the right page because this article will talk about pregnancy and bloody nose as well as what you can do about it.
What makes nosebleed common during pregnancy?
Your nose bleeds during pregnancy and this doesn’t happen for no reason. Here are the two main causes of having a bloody nose during pregnancy.
Increased blood volume
It is in the first trimester when nosebleeds usually happen because of the fact that during this period, the amount of blood circulating in your body makes the heart pumps more blood thus increases heart rate. Since your nose contains tiny blood vessels, the increased blood volume can create damage on these sensitive, little blood vessels causing them to rupture and make your nose bleed.
Related: How Efficient is the Blood Pregnancy Test in Detecting Pregnancy?
Hormonal changes
Another cause of nosebleed during pregnancy is the changes in your hormones. Hormonal changes can cause congestion or a stuffy nose. Expect your gums to swell and bleed too.
Related: A Guide to Pregnancy Hormones
How do you stop nosebleeds if you have it?
Pregnancy and bloody nose come together so mommies, here’s what you need to do if you have a nosebleed.
1. Apply the proper blow technique.
The right blowing technique is an effective way to clear breathing passages without harming your nasal membranes. Here’s how to do it:
- Use your thumb to close one of your nostrils
- Blow gently out using the other side
- Do this again with the other nostril until congestion is gone and you can breathe properly
- Use clean tissue or cloth clean your nostrils
2. Humidify
It helps to put up a warm-mist humidifier in your room to increase moisture to the air. However, make sure you don’t run it all the time and do not use a cold-mist one.
Related: Pregnant Women Snoring, All You Need to Know
3. Take more vitamin C
Speak to your doctor about your Vitamin C intake during pregnancy. She may increase it so you can have stronger capillaries and lessen the chances of having nosebleeds. Drinking fruit juices may help as well as eating vitamin C riched foods and vegetables.
Related: What You Should Know About Types of Prenatal Vitamins
4. Over-the-counter relief
You can find OTC medications to give you congestion relief. Antihistamines and decongestant nasal sprays may won’t harm you and your baby but always ask your doctor before using them so you will be able to know what’s best and safe to use during pregnancy.
5. Follow the right sitting position
There is a proper sitting position for you to stop your nose from bleeding. All you need to do is to lean slightly forward instead of back. Pinch the spot just above your nostrils and below your nose’s bridge closed for about 3 to 5 minutes.
Related: Is it Safe to do Sit Ups During Pregnancy
Things to remember avoid nosebleed during pregnancy
- When blowing your nose, do it gently and avoid heavy sneezes.
- Do not pick your nose
- If you’ve just had a nosebleed, sneeze with your mouth open.
- Avid bending down for at least 12 hours after the incident.
- Keep your nose safe from injury
When to seek help?
Pregnancy and bloody nose may become serious, so consult your doctor or seek immediate help if you have the following signs:
- Hypertension
- The nose continues to bleed after doing the needed steps.
- Heavy blood flow
- Fever or chills
- Having trouble in breathing
- Chest pain
Final Thoughts
Nosebleeds in pregnancy may be a nuisance, but a bloody nose is just one of the many signs of pregnancy. Once you deliver your baby and all the pregnancy hormones start to subside, these nosebleeds will also stop. So, mommies, you really don’t have to worry so much about it. Pregnancy and bloody nose really go together. Relax and just follow the tips above so you won’t harm yourself and your baby. Just be patient and enjoy your preggo moments.
Read more:
- Having an Upset Stomach During Pregnancy: is it Something to Worry About?
- Feet Going Numb While Pregnant – What You Need to Know
- Is Brown Discharge While Pregnancy Normal?
