Pregnancy and Spring Allergies

As the flowers bloom, so can your allergies. If you’re pregnant and your allergies are flaring up, you may need to manage your symptoms differently. Fortunately, your symptoms won’t impact your baby, but women should know not all allergy medications are safe to take during pregnancy.

“Some degree of nasal congestion occurs due to swelling and softening of the upper airway when you are pregnant,” said Jackie Werner, MD, Club W medical director and obstetrician-gynecologist with Meritas Health Pavilion for Women. “As a result, about one-third of pregnant women develop worsening allergies.”

Women who typically get spring allergies may develop symptoms that are worse than usual. Others can get allergies for the first time while pregnant, called pregnancy rhinitis, causing itchy or watery eyes, a sore throat, congestion and a runny nose.

Allergies can negatively impact your sleep, exercise and well-being. They can also worsen reflux and asthma symptoms.

Dr. Werner shared safe treatments and simple ways to manage symptoms:

Limit time outside. Pollen and mold allergies are common in springtime. Try to stay indoors and keep the windows closed when the pollen count is high.

Talk with your doctor about medications. Over-the-counter antihistamines can offer safe relief. Benadryl^® will cause more drowsiness than Claritin^®. Other medications like intranasal sprays can also help decrease upper airway inflammation. Your doctor can help guide you to the right medications that will ease your symptoms without being harmful to your baby.

Try home remedies. Humidifiers and saline nasal sprays can safely provide relief to irritated nasal passages.

Spring allergies can feel miserable for some expectant moms. “Your doctor can help you control your symptoms and improve your quality of life and health as you care for yourself and your pregnancy,” Dr. Werner added.

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