Understanding ‘Pregnancy Nose’: What It Is and Why It Happens

Pregnancy brings many well-known changes: a growing belly, shifting moods, stretch marks, and glowing skin. But one symptom that’s less talked about (and often misunderstood) is the “pregnancy nose.” Some women notice that their nose becomes larger, puffier, or more swollen during pregnancy. It might happen gradually or seem to appear out of nowhere in the third trimester. Naturally, many feel confused, self-conscious, or even worried when they look in the mirror.

The term “pregnancy nose” refers to the temporary swelling or enlargement of the nose that some pregnant women experience. It’s not a medical diagnosis, but a commonly used phrase, especially on social media, to describe noticeable changes in nasal shape or size during pregnancy.

Most often, women report:

Though it might feel dramatic when you first notice it, this change is usually harmless and tends to go away after delivery.

The root cause of pregnancy lies in the circulatory and hormonal changes your body undergoes to support the growing baby. It’s part of a bigger story involving blood flow, hormones, and soft tissues.

Let’s explore the main reasons:

During pregnancy, your blood volume increases by up to 50%. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to your baby, but it also causes blood vessels to expand including those in your face and nose.

As these vessels dilate and hold more fluid, the surrounding tissues (like the soft tissue of the nose) may swell slightly, giving the appearance of a larger or more puffy nose.

Estrogen plays a key role in relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow, while progesterone contributes to fluid retention. These changes can make tissues throughout the body, not just the nose, appear more bloated or puffier.

This is also why many women feel fullness in their hands, feet, and face during the third trimester.

Increased hormones and fluid buildup can also lead to pregnancy rhinitis, a condition where nasal tissues swell, causing congestion, sneezing, or a runny nose without any infection.

This isn’t directly responsible for a “bigger-looking” nose, but it adds to the sensation of fullness and pressure in the area.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), up to 30% of pregnant women experience some form of pregnancy rhinitis.

No, in almost all cases, a pregnancy nose is temporary. After you deliver and your hormone levels normalize, blood volume drops and tissues gradually return to their pre-pregnancy state.

Most women see their nose return to its original size within a few weeks to months postpartum. However, in rare cases where significant fluid retention occurred, mild puffiness may persist slightly longer.

While pregnancy nose is usually a benign symptom, there are a few warning signs you should watch out for.

If you notice sudden, extreme swelling of your face, hands, or feet — especially if it’s accompanied by:

It could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure.

As per ACOG guidelines, preeclampsia typically occurs after 20 weeks and affects 5–8% of pregnancies. If you suspect it, seek immediate medical advice. So, if your nose appears swollen alongside other alarming symptoms, don’t ignore it. Always talk to your obstetrician if something feels off.

Because this symptom is driven by natural hormonal and vascular changes, there’s no sure way to prevent it entirely. However, a few small habits might help minimize puffiness:

Ironically, drinking more water helps your body retain less fluid. Aim for 8–10 glasses a day unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

Too much salt can worsen bloating and swelling. Try to limit processed foods and opt for fresh, home-cooked meals.

Using an extra pillow can help reduce fluid accumulation in your face overnight.

Light lymphatic drainage massage (if approved by your doctor) may help ease facial puffiness and improve circulation.

Light physical activity, like walking or prenatal yoga, improves blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can help your face feel less swollen.

Pregnancy brings physical changes that can sometimes feel overwhelming or out of your control. And when a change shows up on your face like a swollen nose,  it can affect your confidence more than expected.

It’s okay to feel surprised, upset, or self-conscious. What matters is knowing that:

Pregnancy is one of the most intense physical journeys the body can undergo. And every stretch, puff, and curve is part of a powerful transformation, even if it feels weird in the moment.

Pregnancy nose may sound odd or even amusing, but for many women, it’s a real part of the journey, another reminder that the body is doing something extraordinary. If you notice your nose looking different, take a deep breath. It’s just your body adjusting to a new rhythm, one that’s deeply focused on supporting new life. In most cases, the changes will fade. But the memory of how your body stretched, swelled, and shifted to carry your baby that will stay with you as a quiet badge of strength.