Nose Bleeding During Pregnancy

Owing to hormonal changes during pregnancy, nosebleeds are actually quite common. Certainly, these can be frightening, however expecting mothers should be rest assured that these don’t put their babies in harm’s way.

Moreover, according to a study, a significant 65% of pregnant women were able to get relief from stuffy or blocked noses.

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Why does nose bleed occur during pregnancy?

During the first trimester of pregnancy, there is a high level of production of pregnancy hormones- progesterone and estrogen in the body. These hormones increase blood flow to all the body’s mucus membranes, including the nose.

This results in the swelling of the mucus membranes and leads to a feeling of stuffiness. Sometimes, inflammation can also result in allergies. The allergic reaction can cause additional symptoms such as constant sneezing, postnasal drip, and blowing. At night, these symptoms can worsen and lead to coughing and gagging.

These constant symptoms of sneezing and nose-blowing can lead to nose bleeding. As mentioned above, nose bleeding is not something to worry about at all.

A nosebleed can only last for a few seconds or minutes and can occur in one or both the nostrils. Nose bleeds tend to occur at night and it feels blood going down the throat.

Is nose bleeding a cause for concern during pregnancy?

Nose bleeding is a common condition that occurs in pregnant women. This might sound frightening, but as long as someone doesn’t have excessive bleeding, there is nothing to worry about. Both the baby and the mother are safe.

When nose bleeding is likely to occur during pregnancy?

The stuffiness in the nose and the accompanying of nosebleeds usually start around week 16 of pregnancy. Hence, it is advisable that pregnant women should keep a tissue box handy.

How to stop nose bleeding during pregnancy?

Expecting women cannot take medicines as these can put the baby inside the womb in harm’s way. Would-be mothers can try a few tips to stop bleeding from the nose.

While sitting or standing, one should keep the head upright. This will reduce the pressure put on the blood vessels and thereby, slowing nose bleeding.
With the help of the thumb and forefinger, pinch the soft part of the nose- underneath the bony ridge. Once this is done, press the two sides together for 10 minutes.
When there is excessive bleeding, leaning forward and breathing through the mouth can bypass the blood through the nose and not back of the throat.
Spit out the blood from the mouth.
One can also place cold objects such as an ice cube or apply an ice pack to the back of the neck or forehead or bony part of the nose.
One can try this procedure a couple of times.

How to avoid nose bleeding during pregnancy?

Nosebleeding during pregnancy is easily preventive. To reduce the swelling of the mucus membranes, here are few tips that can help.

Drink lots of fluids to prevent the mucus membranes from drying up.
Gently blow the nose instead of blowing it too hard.
Trying to keep the mouth while sneezing as this can distribute the pressure of the sneeze throughout the face.
To moist the air, especially during the winter or dry climate, use a humidifier.
Stay away from irritants like smoke.
To prevent dryness in the nose, lubricate inside the nose, especially water-based.
One can use a prescribed nose spray or decongestant.

When to see a doctor?

If a nose bleeding is triggered after a blow to the head, then contact a doctor immediately. Here are some symptoms that can occur-

High blood pressure
Even after taking the steps, the bleeding doesn’t stop
Difficulty in breathing through the mouth
Excessive blood loss
Frequent nosebleeds
Swallowing a lot of blood and vomiting
Fever or chills

For pregnant women who have frequent episodes of nosebleeds, they can contact Pristyn Care clinics or book an online consultation for medical attention.