When you’re pregnant, everything you consume not only affects you but your unborn child as well. This can make treating an illness more complicated. Before, you could easily take any over-the-counter medications. Now that you’re pregnant, you may be wondering what you can take to treat your cold or cough. At Doylestown Women’s Health Center, we strive to help women by providing those who need healthcare and resources. For those who are dealing with pregnancy and a cold, here’s how you can treat yourself.
What To Avoid
Most OB-GYNs recommend staying away from medications during the first 12-28 weeks of pregnancy so that the baby can develop. Before taking any medications, talk with your doctor about what medications you can and cannot take. When sick with a cold or flu, certain medications should be avoided, including:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Codeine
- Bactrim (An antibiotic)
Avoid all-in-one medications and instead, choose single medications for the symptoms you’re dealing with.
What You Can Take
Certain medications are generally approved after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This includes:
- Menthol rub
- Nasal strips
- Cough drops or lozenges
- Acetaminophen
- Cough suppressants
- Expectorant
- Cough syrup
- Calcium-carbonate (or what’s known as Mylanta or Tums)
- Dextromethorphan (Robitussin or Robitussin DM )
Home Remedies
The best thing to do (besides taking medication) is to treat your cold/flu with home remedies. If you fall ill while pregnant, try these home remedies:
- Get plenty of rest.
- Drink lots of fluids.
- If you have a sore throat or cough, gargle warm salt water.
- Take nasal sprays to loosen the nasal mucus.
- Drink herbal tea with honey and/or lemon.
- Breathe in warm, humid air by using a humidifier, facial steamer, or taking a hot shower.
- Use hot/cold packs to alleviate sinus pain
These are just some of the ways to alleviate cold or flu symptoms at home without taking medications.
Get Quality Healthcare From Doylestown Women’s Health Center
Looking for quality women’s healthcare? Contact Doylestown Women’s Health Center today! We offer comprehensive services ranging from obstetric to gynecologic care and more! Our expert doctors and staff are here to help you on a path toward better health. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to our Doylestown center! We’ll be happy to assist you.