“Pregnancy nose” (also known as pregnancy rhinitis) is a phenomenon some people experience during pregnancy. Though you may find it annoying or surprising if it shows up unexpectedly, it’s not usually a cause for alarm.
“Pregnancy nose” refers to a feeling that your nose has increased in size during pregnancy. You may feel your nose is more bulbous (or wider) than usual, particularly at the tip.
You can also experience symptoms, including:
- nasal congestion
- sneezing
- a runny nose
- postnasal drip
It’s common, typically occurring in the final 2 weeks of pregnancy and resolving a few weeks after you give birth.
People may also experience other symptoms affecting the nose during pregnancy. For example, some people notice more nosebleeds during this time.
Pregnancy nose happens because your blood vessels swell as a result of increased blood flow. This is a result of hormone changes that occur during pregnancy. But the exact mechanism remains unclear.
It’s thought to be due to higher levels of estrogen, extra fluid in the body, and human growth hormone.
It’s also more likely to happen if you smoke.
While you can’t stop pregnancy nose from happening, there are steps you can take to help manage symptoms.
Check with your doctor to find out which medication is safe for you to use in pregnancy.
You may be able to use certain nasal sprays that can help with congestion. For example, your doctor may recommend steroid nasal sprays, such as Flonase or Rhinocort, if your symptoms are severe.
You may also wish to try saline rinses (neti pot) to clear your nose or a humidifier to bring moisture back into the air you breathe.
To help reduce fluid retention, try:
- staying hydrated
- limiting salt intake
- elevating your head