Getting a cold while pregnant is annoying and stressful — you worry about symptoms and about which medicines are safe. The good news: many simple fixes help, and a few meds are commonly used in pregnancy. This page gives clear, practical options you can try today and tells you when to check with your provider.
Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is the go-to for fever and body aches. Use the lowest effective dose and check your prenatal provider if you need it for more than a few days. For congestion, saline nasal spray and short courses of a topical nasal decongestant (oxymetazoline) can help — limit sprays to 3 days to avoid rebound congestion.
Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine are best avoided in early pregnancy unless your doctor approves — they can cause issues in some cases. For runny nose or sneezing, loratadine and cetirizine (non-sedating antihistamines) have more safety data in pregnancy than many older options.
If coughing keeps you up, dextromethorphan is commonly used in pregnancy for cough suppression; many providers consider it low risk. Guaifenesin (an expectorant) has limited data but is often used; check with your clinician before starting it, especially in the first trimester. Avoid multi-ingredient cold pills without confirming each component is pregnancy-safe.
Humidifiers and steam are simple and effective. A cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom or a hot shower can loosen mucus and ease breathing. Saline nasal rinses (neti pot or squeeze bottle) clear sinuses without meds — use sterile or boiled/cooled water to avoid infection risk.
Stay hydrated and rest. Warm drinks with lemon and honey soothe sore throats (avoid honey only for infants under 1 year; it's fine for pregnant adults). Throat lozenges or hard candy reduce cough reflex and are safe options. Keep your head elevated at night to reduce post-nasal drip and improve sleep.
Use your prenatal vitamin and eat vitamin C–rich foods (oranges, berries, peppers) to support your immune system; don’t overload on high-dose supplements without medical advice. If you take any prescription medication, check for interactions before adding OTC meds — your pharmacist can help fast.
If you develop high fever, difficulty breathing, severe sore throat, persistent vomiting, or symptoms that rapidly worsen, contact your healthcare provider or urgent care right away. When in doubt, call — a quick phone check can stop worry and keep both you and your baby safe.
