Nosebleeds during pregnancy: causes and treatments

Nosebleeds during pregnancy are they normal?

Although scary and uncomfortable, nosebleeds are very common during pregnancy, about 20% of pregnant women experience this during their pregnancy.

What causes nose bleeding during pregnancy?

• Increased blood volume

Experts say that your blood volume increases up to 50% during pregnancy. This extra blood circulating in your body can cause the blood vessels in your nose to become more vulnerable, which eventually causes the nosebleed.

• Hormonal changes

During pregnancy, it’s OK to blame everything on the changes in your hormones. Pregnancy hormones can make your nose more congested and sensitive and more prone to bleeding.

• Dehydration

When you're pregnant you require more water, which makes you more vulnerable to dehydration. This dehydration causes dryness in your nose which can lead to nosebleeds during pregnancy.

• Certain medical or environmental causes

Some medical conditions like allergies or colds can make the blood vessels in your nose become easily irritated which can cause bleeding. Living in a dry environment or constantly air-conditioned surrounding can also increase dryness and bleeding in the nose.

Symptoms of nosebleeds during pregnancy

During a nosebleed, blood can come out of both nostrils. Bleeding can happen while you are asleep, and you might wake up with a taste of blood in the back of your throat. It can be alarming and scary, but unless there are other symptoms associated with the bleeds, you shouldn’t be concerned.

How to stop a nosebleed

• If you are lying down, sit or stand up.
• Pinch the soft part of your nose, just above your nostrils, for 10 to 15 minutes without releasing the pressure.
• Lean forward and breathe through your mouth to drain blood down your nose instead of down the back of your throat.
• Using a covered ice pack, or a packet of frozen peas on the top of your nose may help reduce blood flow.
• If the bleeding doesn't stop, seek medical assistance immediately.

How to prevent nose bleeding during pregnancy

• Use a humidifier in the room when you sleep.
• Stay hydrated and drink enough water.
• Blow your nose gently.
• Don’t pick your nose or pluck the hair inside it.
• Ask your doctor to prescribe a safe cold or allergy medication to relieve congestion.
• Use a water-based nasal spray or gel to moisturize your nose.

 

Also check out Is intercourse during pregnancy safe?