Effective Home Remedies for Cold During Pregnancy

Gentle rituals and soothing comforts ease discomfort and support mother-to-be wellness.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 18, 2025

Gentle rituals and soothing comforts ease discomfort and support mother-to-be wellness.

Pregnancy is a transformative time in a woman’s life, marked both by anticipation and responsibility. While most minor illnesses, such as the common cold, are considered harmless during pregnancy, their symptoms can be distressing for expectant mothers. Ensuring relief without compromising maternal or fetal health is crucial. This article details safe, effective home remedies for cold symptoms during pregnancy, including practical tips, the rationale behind commonly recommended remedies, FAQs, and expert advice for when a doctor’s intervention is necessary.

Is the Common Cold Dangerous During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy-Safe Home Remedies for Cold and Cough
How to Reduce Your Risk of Catching a Cold
Medications and Supplements: What’s Safe?
Nourishing Foods and Drinks for Cold Relief
Lifestyle Tips for Faster Recovery
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When to Call Your Doctor

Is the Common Cold Dangerous During Pregnancy?

Experiencing a common cold during pregnancy is generally not considered dangerous for most healthy expectant mothers or their babies. Typical symptoms include a persistent cough, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, mild sore throat, and fatigue. While these symptoms can cause significant discomfort, they typically do not pose a direct threat to fetal development. However, pregnancy does suppress the immune system, making women more susceptible to infections and to complications if symptoms worsen—such as the development of secondary infections like pneumonia or bronchitis.

Pregnancy-Safe Home Remedies for Cold and Cough

Many traditional remedies have stood the test of time for relieving cold symptoms in pregnancy, supported by modern medicine for their gentleness and safety. Below are ten effective approaches:

Stay Hydrated: Drinking ample fluids—water, herbal teas (without caffeine), and clear broths—helps loosen mucus, soothe the throat, and prevent dehydration.
Gargle with Warm Salt Water: Dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz of warm water. Gargling soothes sore throats, reduces inflammation, and may help kill some viruses and bacteria.
Saline Nasal Sprays: Over-the-counter saline sprays or drops are gentle for pregnant women; they help clear nasal passages and relieve congestion without risk to mother or baby.
Use a Humidifier or Steam Inhalation: Adding humidity to indoor air makes breathing easier and soothes irritated nasal membranes—either with a humidifier or by carefully inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water.
Rest: Adequate sleep and physical rest support a robust immune response and aid recovery.
Honey and Lemon: A spoonful of honey or honey added to warm lemon water or tea soothes sore throats and quiets coughs. Choose decaffeinated, pregnancy-safe herbal teas for added comfort.
Hot Soup: Chicken noodle soup or nutrient-rich vegetable broths are classic, effective remedies. These warm liquids offer hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits, while the steam helps ease nasal congestion.
Pineapple Juice: In moderation, pineapple juice provides bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe sore throats and cough.
Mentholated Rubs: Products like Vicks Vapor Rub used externally on the chest may help open airways through menthol vapors. Always check with your provider before use and avoid direct application to nostrils or mouth.
Breathe Right Nasal Strips: These strips help open nasal passages mechanically, improving airflow and easing breathing overnight.

Pregnancy-Safe Practices for Quick Relief

Elevate your head with an extra pillow to ease breathing at night.
Take frequent showers to benefit from the soothing steam.
Avoid cigarette smoke and strong chemical odors, which can aggravate symptoms.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Catching a Cold During Pregnancy

While complete avoidance of the common cold is nearly impossible during pregnancy, especially during peak seasons, several simple yet effective habits can help reduce your susceptibility and minimize the severity of illness:

Wash Your Hands Often: Regular handwashing with soap and water greatly reduces transmission of viruses.
Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of restorative sleep each night to bolster immune function.
Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet: Fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provide essential micronutrients for immunity.
Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals: Distance yourself from those who are actively coughing or sneezing during illness spikes.
Exercise Regularly: Low-impact activities like walking or prenatal yoga can strengthen immune response and mitigate stress.
Manage Stress: Meditation, gentle stretching, and deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress hormones and support immune health.
Get Flu Vaccination: The CDC recommends annual flu shots for pregnant women to reduce risk of serious flu complications. Always consult your provider first.

Medications and Supplements: What’s Safe?

While home remedies are preferable, certain medications and supplements may be considered safe for managing cold symptoms in pregnancy when used appropriately and under medical guidance:

Remedy	Safe During Pregnancy?	Notes
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)	Yes	Safe for fever and headaches. Do not exceed 4000 mg/24 hours.
Mentholated Cough Drops	Yes	Use occasionally for sore throat and cough relief.
Pseudoephedrine/Phenylephrine (Sudafed)	Consult Provider	Safe for short-term occasional use. Not recommended for women with hypertension.
Saline Nasal Spray	Yes	No active medication. Gentle and safe.
Robitussin DM	Consult Provider	Follow package directions and avoid other cough medications unless cleared.
Claritin or Zyrtec (Antihistamines)	Consult Provider	Generally safe if needed, but always check with a doctor.
Zinc, Vitamin C, Elderberry	Consult Provider	May support immunity and decrease cold duration, but supplement only if approved.

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement regimen, as individual needs and risks can vary widely.

Nourishing Foods and Drinks for Cold Relief

Diet plays a critical role both in immunity and relief from cold symptoms. Incorporate these foods and drinks for added comfort and healing:

Chicken or Vegetable Soup: Known for its ability to open nasal passages and soothe a sore throat, soup also provides essential nutrients.
Fresh Fruits and Veggies: Oranges, strawberries, tomatoes, and bell peppers are high in Vitamin C, which may help support immunity if dietary intake is sufficient.
Honey: Natural antibacterial properties make honey excellent for cough and throat irritation relief; safe in moderate amounts during pregnancy.
Warm Lemon Water: Helps loosen mucus and delivers Vitamin C.
Pineapple Juice: Bromelain in pineapple can reduce inflammation and may ease sore throat discomfort. Moderation is key to prevent digestive discomfort.

Lifestyle Tips for Faster Recovery

Smart daily habits can make a significant difference in how quickly you recover:

Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep restores the body’s defense mechanisms.
Limit Activity: Avoid strenuous exercise or stressful activities until symptoms subside.
Use Extra Pillows: Elevate your head during sleep to ease nasal congestion.
Dress Comfortably: Wear cozy layers to help regulate body temperature, especially if chills are present.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Prevent re-exposure or spreading germs, particularly in family environments.
Keep Indoor Air Clean: Regularly clean humidifiers and air purifiers to avoid mold or bacteria buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I take over-the-counter cold medication during pregnancy?

A: Some medications like acetaminophen, saline nasal sprays, and certain mentholated lozenges can be safe. Others, including decongestants and cough suppressants, require a doctor’s guidance as ingredients may not be suitable during pregnancy.

Q: Will a cold harm my baby?

A: Most common colds do not threaten fetal health, though high fever or persistent illness should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Q: How can I distinguish between a cold and the flu during pregnancy?

A: Flu is usually associated with sudden onset of fever, body aches, chills, and fatigue, while a cold arrives gradually with mild runny nose and throat symptoms. If you experience high fever or breathing difficulty, consult your doctor promptly.

Q: Are herbal remedies and supplements safe for colds during pregnancy?

A: Many herbal remedies lack sufficient safety data for pregnancy; zinc, vitamin C, and elderberry may sometimes be recommended, but always check with your provider first.

Q: What should I avoid while pregnant with a cold?

Avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Do not use combination cold medicines without consulting a doctor.
Minimize exposure to crowded public spaces during peak cold and flu season.

Q: How long should a typical cold last during pregnancy?

A: Most colds resolve within 7–10 days. If symptoms persist longer than two weeks or worsen, professional medical guidance is needed.

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following during pregnancy:

Fever exceeding 100.5°F (38°C) that does not lower with acetaminophen.
Severe sore throat, productive cough, or colored, thick mucus that lasts longer than a week.
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or chest pain.
Persistent vomiting or dehydration signs.
Weakness or dizziness beyond the typical severity of a cold.
Exposure to flu or other contagious illnesses with risk of complications.

Conclusion

Managing a cold during pregnancy requires a balanced approach—relying on gentle home remedies, supporting immunity through diet and lifestyle, and staying alert to potential complications. Consult your healthcare team for any uncertainties or serious symptoms. With careful attention and self-care, most pregnant women can experience quick, safe relief from common cold symptoms while prioritizing both maternal and fetal well-being.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete