How To Stop Nosebleeds During Pregnancy

Pregnancy comes with its fair share of surprises — glowing skin, odd cravings, and sometimes, the not-so-fun stuff like swollen feet and nosebleeds. Yes, you heard that right! Nosebleeds during pregnancy are more common than you might think.

In fact, studies say that around 20 percent of pregnant women experience nosebleeds at some point during their pregnancy, compared to just 6 percent of non-pregnant women. 

Read below this article to know why this happens and how you can stop and prevent nosebleeds during pregnancy.

Pregnancy hormones — especially estrogen and progesterone — do more than just nurture your growing baby. They also cause the tiny blood vessels in your nose to expand. On top of that, the increased blood volume in your body, which can be up to 50 percent more by the third trimester, puts extra pressure on these delicate vessels. It ultimately increases the risk of breaking and bleeding.

Add dry winter air, allergies, or even a common cold to the mix, and your nose can turn even more runny.

The moment you feel a nosebleed coming on, the first rule is: don’t panic. Sit down, tilt your head slightly forward — not backward — to avoid swallowing blood. Pinch your nostrils together using your thumb and index finger, and hold for about 10 to 15 minutes. Breathe through your mouth while applying the pressure. This often helps stop the bleeding.

Dry nasal passages are one of the biggest triggers for nosebleeds, especially during winter or in air-conditioned rooms. A saline nasal spray or a gentle swipe of petroleum jelly inside your nostrils can help keep the area moist and less prone to cracking. Humidifiers can also work wonders at home, especially during dry months.

It’s tempting to blow your nose when it feels stuffy — but during pregnancy, try to be gentle. Forceful blowing or frequent nose-picking can irritate sensitive blood vessels, leading to nosebleeds. Use saline sprays or steam inhalation to clear congestion instead.

Your body is working overtime during pregnancy, which means staying hydrated is more important than ever. The key is to aim for at least 8 to 12 cups per day to keep your nasal tissues moist from the inside and reduce the risk of dryness-induced nosebleeds.

If you live in a dry climate or your home relies on heating or air conditioning, the air can strip your nasal passages of moisture. Using a humidifier can help maintain a nose-friendly environment, reducing your chances of getting those pesky nosebleeds.

While occasional nosebleeds are common and usually harmless, there are times when it’s best to check in with your doctor.

Nosebleeds during pregnancy can be startling, but most of the time, they’re just another quirky side effect of your body’s remarkable transformation. Simple habits, such as keeping your nasal passages moist, staying hydrated, and handling your nose with care, can significantly help manage these concerns.