Epistaxis in pregnancy

Pregnancy can increase blood flow and make the nasal lining more sensitive. Dry indoor air, rubbing, forceful blowing, allergic rhinitis, a common cold, or sinusitis may irritate that lining. A nosebleed alone does not show that something is wrong with the pregnancy. A clinician may also check blood pressure if bleeding is recurrent or you feel unwell.

Tell your maternity team about frequent episodes, especially if you take medicines that affect clotting or have other bleeding.

Sit upright, lean forward, and pinch the soft part of your nose without releasing the pressure repeatedly. Breathe through your mouth and spit out blood. Afterward, keep the nose moist with a pregnancy-appropriate saline product if your clinician recommends it, drink fluids, and avoid picking, forceful blowing, and hot showers for a short while. Check before using medicated nasal sprays.

Seek urgent help if bleeding is heavy, does not settle with firm pressure, follows an injury, or leaves you faint, breathless, or unusually weak. Contact your maternity team promptly if a nosebleed comes with severe headache, vision changes, sudden swelling, upper abdominal pain, or a high blood-pressure reading.

Ask which saline or moisturising product is suitable, whether a nasal spray is safe, and whether your blood pressure or blood count should be checked. Share your pregnancy stage, episode frequency, and all medicines.