Yes, Pregnancy Nose Is Real: What You Need to Know

Some pregnancy symptoms are common, and more or less everyone knows about them - for example, morning sickness and stretch marks. However, there are also lesser-known changes that can occur, one of which is “pregnancy nose”. Characterized by nasal swelling and congestion, pregnancy nose has been more widely discussed on social media recently, but what exactly is it and will it go away after pregnancy? We’re getting into it all.

What is pregnancy nose and how is it caused?

During pregnancy, your nose can change size and shape due to hormonal fluctuations. Increasing estrogen levels during pregnancy causes the blood vessels in your nose to relax and dilate to increase blood flow, which leads to swollen nose tissue. You may also experience nosebleeds, congestion, inflammation of the nasal tissue, and more mucus tissue.

When does pregnancy nose happen?

Swelling can occur as early as the first trimester, but pregnancy nose can happen at any time during the pregnancy and often the changes become more noticeable as pregnancy progresses.

Should you be worried about pregnancy nose?

While swelling and changes in the nose are temporary and typically resolve after childbirth, it's natural to wonder if it's a cause for concern. Rest assured, pregnancy nose changes are generally not a sign of a serious health condition.

If discomfort or headaches arise from pregnancy nose swelling or you experience sudden and significant swelling, then you should seek advice from your doctor.

How to prevent pregnancy nose

There’s no way to prevent pregnancy nose as it’s a result of changing hormones that are normal during pregnancy. To relieve symptoms like congestion, consider using a humidifier at night or saline nasal spray.

Will your nose return to normal after pregnancy?

After delivery, it can take some time for the swelling in your nose to subside and the hormone levels in your body to return to normal. Nasal congestion may also continue postpartum. You can continue to use a humidifier or ask your doctor for medication like nasal sprays to give you some relief.

What unexpected symptoms have you experienced during pregnancy? Let us know in the comments!

---