The increase in blood volume during pregnancy affects many parts of the body and one of them is the nose. The internal tissues are also affected by pregnancy hormones. As a consequence, nasal congestion and nose bleeds are some of the most common discomforts.  

Nose bleeds

The internal nose tissue is very delicate and the changes it undergoes during pregnancy can easily cause nose bleeds. If you live in a very dry or very cold climate, or if the heating is always on in your home, this can further irritate the internal nose tissue, causing frequent nose bleeds. Bleeds can vary from a small amount of blood on a handkerchief to a stronger hemorrhage that may require that you take certain steps.

In the event that you notice that the inside of your nose is very dry and sensitive, you may apply a little bit of Vaseline or olive oil daily in order to soften the tissues. You may also ask your doctor if there is a cream specific for inside the nose.   

If you bleed rather frequently, you should tell your doctor, as this could be a symptom of another problem, such as high blood pressure. 

What to do if you have a heavy nasal hemorrhage.  

When blood isn’t flowing freely, but you see it on the handkerchief, the bleeding will most likely stop by itself in a few minutes. However, if it is a hemorrhage in which blood is dripping from your nose, you should take certain steps to stop it.

Pincer your nose softly with your fingers as if you were going to jump into the pool, and tilt your head forward. You should stay in that position for around 15 minutes. You should not throw your head back, to avoid swallowing blood. If you haven’t successfully stopped the bleeding in that time, you should go to the hospital or call your practitioner.

Nasal congestion

The feeling of having a stuffy nose and excess mucus is also a consequence of pregnancy hormones. Some women experience this congestion during several months of pregnancy, while for others it’s just occasional.  There is not much to be done against congestion, except apply some natural remedies.

During allergy seasons this congestion may worsen. In the event that you are allergic to the point of having asthma, your doctor will most likely recommend that you continue using your inhaler when you have a crisis. The oxygen you breathe is now very important for your baby. If you know that you have these problems in spring, speak with your doctor before this time of the year, in order to know how to react in times of crisis.  

Remedies for nasal congestion

Saline drops could help you to feel slightly decongested. These drops are harmless and you may use them as needed in order to wash the interior of your nose. However, you should avoid decongestant drops, since some of them could cause addiction.  

Another very old but effective remedy is to inhale vapors with eucalyptus drops or leaves. Cover your head with a towel in order to inhale more vapors, taking care not to burn yourself. You may also use a humidifier in your room at night and add a few drops of eucalyptus.

If your congestion problem is very bothersome and you are unable to alleviate it with these natural remedies, speak with your doctor in order to know if there is any medication you could take.