Most Important Cold Symptoms During Pregnancy / Does a Cold During Pregnancy Harm the Fetus?

According to SaedNews, when you become pregnant, everything that happens to you affects both your body and your fetus. As a result, treating illnesses during pregnancy becomes a bit more complicated. Before pregnancy, you could easily use over-the-counter (OTC) medications to treat a cold. However, some of these medications might be dangerous for the fetus during pregnancy.

Effects of Pregnancy on the Immune System

Pregnancy temporarily alters some functions of the immune system to protect the developing fetus. In other words, when you are pregnant, your immune system weakens to prevent your body from rejecting the fetus. This change increases your vulnerability to viral and bacterial infections. Research indicates that pregnant women may catch colds more frequently during the first trimester, but the likelihood decreases in the second trimester.

Cold Symptoms During Pregnancy

Colds are often caused by a type of virus called rhinovirus, which can easily spread from person to person. The illness usually starts with a sore or scratchy throat, which lasts for a day or two. Afterward, you may gradually experience other symptoms, such as:

• Runny nose followed by nasal congestion

• Sneezing

• Mild fatigue

• Dry cough (especially near the end of the cold, which may last for a week or more)

• Low-grade fever (usually less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 37.7 degrees Celsius)

Does a Cold During Pregnancy Harm the Fetus?

Having a cold during pregnancy does not harm you or your baby because the fetus is protected by your immune system, its own immune system, and the placenta. However, fever is one of the most important symptoms to watch out for. Research shows that fever early in pregnancy increases the risk of congenital heart defects, cleft lip, spina bifida, and other serious problems.

Colds generally do not cause fever in most people. Therefore, an elevated body temperature may indicate a more serious illness such as the flu or COVID-19. If you develop a fever during pregnancy, be sure to contact your doctor for treatment.

When to See a Doctor

While colds do not pose a risk to the fetus, the flu should be taken seriously. The flu increases the risk of preterm labor and congenital defects. Therefore, it is recommended to seek medical help immediately if you experience the following symptoms:

• Dizziness

• Difficulty breathing

• Chest pain or pressure

• Vaginal bleeding

• Confusion

• Severe vomiting

• High fever that does not decrease with acetaminophen

• Decreased fetal movement

Best Cold Treatment During Pregnancy; What to Do When You Have a Cold During Pregnancy

Many cold medications contain ingredients that are not considered safe for pregnant women. Using home remedies is the safest way to relieve cold symptoms during pregnancy. Generally, it is recommended to:

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Rinse your sinuses with a neti pot or saline nasal spray.

• Gargle with warm salt water if you have a cough or sore throat. Mix a quarter teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water.

• Sleep as much as possible.

• Use a humidifier or take a warm shower to breathe warm, humid air and reduce nasal congestion.

• Mix honey with hot water and drink it to soothe your sore throat.

• Eat chicken soup to reduce inflammation and congestion.

• Focus on foods rich in vitamin C like citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits), strawberries, kiwi, mango, tomatoes, bell peppers, papaya, broccoli, and spinach. These foods can naturally boost your immune system.

• Increase your intake of zinc to help strengthen your immune system. Pregnant women should get 11 to 15 milligrams of zinc per day. Turkey, beef, eggs, yogurt, wheat germ, and oatmeal are some of the best sources of this essential nutrient.

• Continue taking prenatal supplements. These supplements usually contain vitamin C and zinc, which help treat colds. However, it is important to note that you should not take any other supplements without consulting your obstetrician

Preventing Colds During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, you may be more susceptible to colds. Preventing a cold during pregnancy can be challenging, but the following strategies may help:

• Get enough sleep.

• Follow a balanced and varied diet.

• Wash your hands regularly.

• Exercise (consult your obstetrician before starting a new exercise program).

• Wear a mask and practice social distancing in public places or around sick individuals.

• Take prenatal supplements as prescribed by your doctor.

• If you smoke, consider quitting as it strengthens your immune system.

• Reduce stress.