Common cold in pregnancy: what to know

A cold may bring a blocked nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, tiredness and a mild temperature. Pregnancy-related nasal swelling can make congestion feel more pronounced, so symptoms do not always indicate a more serious infection. The cold itself is not the same as influenza or a bacterial illness.

Tell your maternity team about persistent fever, worsening cough, wheezing, chest pain or reduced ability to drink. Ear pain and facial pressure may need assessment for a separate problem such as middle-ear infection or sinusitis.

Prioritise rest, regular fluids and nourishing food as tolerated. Saline nasal spray, gentle steam from a warm shower and a cool-mist humidifier may ease congestion. Keep the room free from cigarette smoke and avoid close contact with people who are unwell when possible.

Before taking a pain reliever, decongestant, cough mixture, herbal product or essential oil, ask a pharmacist, midwife or doctor whether it suits your stage of pregnancy and your health history. Avoid doubling ingredients found in combination products. Antibiotics do not treat an uncomplicated viral cold.

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, severe dehydration or a blue or grey colour around the lips. Contact your maternity or medical team when fever persists, symptoms are getting worse, you cannot drink normally, or you notice a pregnancy-related concern such as reduced fetal movement after the stage when you normally feel it.

Ask which symptom medicines are suitable for your trimester, whether your temperature needs review, and how to distinguish cold symptoms from influenza or another infection. Have a list of prescribed medicines, supplements, allergies and relevant pregnancy details available.