Many standard decongestants are Category C drugs , meaning animal studies have shown risks, and human studies are lacking. Pseudoephedrine, in particular, is linked in some studies to a small increased risk of abdominal wall defects (gastroschisis) if taken during the first trimester.
Gravity works against you at night. Prop up your head with an extra pillow (or a wedge pillow) so you are sleeping at a 30-degree angle. This helps drain the sinuses. nasal congestion early pregnancy
But try to reframe it. Every stuffy, sleepless night is a sign that your blood volume is surging, your progesterone is high, and your placenta is building a fortress for your baby. The congestion is a noisy, annoying side effect of a very quiet miracle. Many standard decongestants are Category C drugs ,
| Symptom | Cold/COVID/Flu | Pregnancy Rhinitis | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Yellow, green, thick | Clear, thin, watery | | Sore throat | Often present | No (unless from mouth breathing) | | Fever | Common | Never | | Body aches | Common | No | | Duration | 7-10 days | Weeks to months | | Itchy eyes | Rare | No (that’s allergies) | Prop up your head with an extra pillow