Sore Throat During Pregnancy: Causes, Remedies, and Precautions

Time-tested home remedies can ease irritation without compromising mother and baby health.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 18, 2025

Time-tested home remedies can ease irritation without compromising mother and baby health.

Sore throat is a common discomfort faced by pregnant women, compounded by the need to choose treatments that consider both maternal and fetal safety. This comprehensive guide covers the causes, symptoms, safe remedies, treatment options, and when to seek medical attention for sore throat during pregnancy.

What Causes a Sore Throat During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy changes your body in many ways, including adjustments to the immune system that make you slightly more vulnerable to infections. A sore throat can result from several causes:

Viral Infections: Colds or the flu are frequent culprits.
Bacterial Infections: Less common but may present with more severe symptoms like high fever or pus in the throat.
Allergies: Increased sensitivity during pregnancy can trigger throat inflammation.
Sinusitis: Sinus drainage irritates the throat.
Gastroesophageal Reflux (Heartburn): Common in pregnancy, acids can irritate the throat lining.
Dry Air: Indoor heating or air conditioning may dry out mucous membranes.

Is Sore Throat a Serious Concern During Pregnancy?

Most cases of sore throat in pregnant women are mild and resolve with simple measures. However, persistent or severe symptoms can signal underlying concerns such as bacterial infections, strep throat, or complications from underlying health conditions.

Generally not dangerous—but decision making should be based on symptom severity and duration.
Antibiotics and medications—must be chosen with care to avoid fetal risk.

Symptoms of Sore Throat in Pregnancy

The classic signs of a sore throat include:

Scratchy, irritated, or painful throat, especially when swallowing
Dryness or a raw sensation
Redness at the back of the throat
Mild cough or hoarseness
In some cases: headache, mild fever, or runny nose

Safe Home Remedies for Sore Throat During Pregnancy

Many over-the-counter remedies are not recommended during pregnancy. Safe, effective home remedies offer comfort without risk to the fetus:

Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids keeps the throat moist and supports recovery. Opt for water, warm non-caffeinated beverages, and clear soups.
Gargle with Warm Salt Water
This is a classic remedy to reduce inflammation and irritation. Mix one teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gargle several times a day. Avoid or limit if you have high blood pressure.
Use a Humidifier
A cool-mist humidifier adds moisture to the air, relieving throat dryness and irritation.
Honey in Warm Water or Herbal Teas
Honey soothes throat tissues and is safe for pregnant women. Try it with warm water or in herbal teas, such as chamomile.
Ice Chips
Sucking on ice chips can numb the throat and reduce swelling, offering temporary pain relief.
Throat Lozenges
Certain throat lozenges are safe for pregnancy—consult your provider for specific brands.
Ginger Tea with Lemon
Ginger offers anti-inflammatory benefits and, when combined with lemon, can boost immunity. Limit ginger to 1g per day and consult your provider, especially if you’re close to delivery or have a history of miscarriage.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Eat oranges, tangerines, and other fruits to enhance your body’s defenses.

Table: Safe vs. Unsafe Remedies for Sore Throat in Pregnancy

Remedy	Safe in Pregnancy?	Notes
Warm Salt Water Gargle	Yes	Avoid excessive salt if hypertensive
Honey & Herbal Tea	Yes	Use pasteurized honey
Ice Chips	Yes	Temporary relief, helps with swelling
Throat Lozenges	Some	Consult provider for brand safety
Over-the-counter Painkillers (Ibuprofen)	No	Avoid unless prescribed by physician
Antibiotics	Sometimes	Only with prescription; some are safe, some are not
Alcohol-Based Remedies	No	Avoid completely

Medicines for Sore Throat: What’s Safe?

It’s crucial for pregnant women to consult an obstetrician before taking any medication. While most sore throats resolve without prescription drugs, sometimes antibiotics are necessary. Here’s what you need to know:

Safe Antibiotics:
Penicillins (amoxicillin, ampicillin), cephalosporins (cephalexin), erythromycin. Only take these after your doctor’s prescription.
Unsafe Antibiotics:
Some antibiotic classes (e.g., tetracyclines, quinolones) are harmful in pregnancy.
Vitamin Supplementation:
Vitamins A, C, and B (in animal milk and fortified foods) can help reduce inflammation and support immunity.

Herbal and Folk Remedies: What’s Safe and What to Avoid?

Folk remedies are widely used, but not all are safe for pregnant women. The following remedies have been found effective for mild sore throats during pregnancy:

Salted lemon water
Carrot juice mixed with honey
Boiled perilla leaf water
Fresh radish
Turmeric powder mixed with warm milk or water

Always check with your doctor before starting any new remedy, especially if you have underlying conditions, allergies, or are on specific medications.

Prevention: How to Avoid Sore Throats During Pregnancy

Boosting your immune defenses and minimizing exposure to irritants is key. Here are several preventive steps:

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
Wash hands frequently, especially after contact with sick individuals
Use a humidifier in dry climates or heated spaces
Avoid smoky environments and secondhand smoke
Stay hydrated and well-rested
Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses, or towels with others

When Should You See a Doctor?

While most sore throats are mild, some symptoms call for prompt medical attention:

Sore throat persists more than 3 days
High fever (> 38°C or 101°F) or chills
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Pus, white patches, or severe redness at the back of the throat
Pain makes it hard to eat or drink
Sudden onset of symptoms or severe pain
History of chronic throat problems

Your healthcare provider may perform tests (such as throat swab or blood tests) to identify the cause and prescribe safe interventions.

Complications: What If Sore Throat Goes Untreated?

Uncontrolled infection may rarely spread, leading to complications such as sinusitis, ear infections, or, in severe cases, kidney inflammation (as seen with untreated strep throat).
Chronic discomfort can impair hydration, nutrition, and overall well-being, which are vital during pregnancy.
Rarely, high fever or severe infections can affect fetal growth if not managed promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I take throat lozenges while pregnant?

A: Certain throat lozenges are safe, but not all. Consult your doctor for specific recommendations and avoid medicated lozenges with ingredients not tested for pregnancy safety.

Q: Is it safe to use herbal teas for sore throat in pregnancy?

A: Herbal teas like chamomile and ginger may be safe in moderation and when not combined with other herbs. Speak with your healthcare provider before trying any new teas, especially blends or those not commonly used.

Q: Do sore throats during pregnancy harm the baby?

A: Most mild sore throats do not harm the baby, but high fever, bacterial infections, or severe dehydration can have adverse effects. Always monitor symptoms and seek medical advice when in doubt.

Q: Can I take antibiotics for a sore throat?

A: Only certain antibiotics are safe during pregnancy, and these should be prescribed by your healthcare provider. Self-medication is not recommended.

Q: How long does a sore throat last during pregnancy?

A: Most sore throats improve within 3 days with home remedies. However, if symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

Q: What foods should I eat to boost my immunity?

A: Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants help build immunity. Keep hydrated and avoid processed or junk foods.

Key Takeaways

Sore throat is common in pregnancy—most cases resolve with safe home care.
Choose remedies and medicines that do not compromise maternal or fetal health.
Know the warning signs and when to consult your provider.
Prevent sore throat by keeping your immune defenses strong and avoiding irritants.

References

Information for this article was synthesized from clinical guidance by Mucinex, Vinmec, Tua Saúde, WebMD, and The Bump. Always seek direct medical advice when making decisions about treatments during pregnancy.

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