Pregnancy Week by Week

Nosebleeds during pregnancy are common during pregnancy. There are several causes for a nosebleed and just being pregnant can be cause enough. There are hormones that are released during gestation that dilate the blood vessels. When those vessels in the nose are dilated, sometimes bleeding can result. When you are in an environment that dries out the membranes in the nasal passages, then you can experience some blood coming from the membranes. Trauma can cause a nose to bleed and so can the disease of hypertension.

Treatments for nosebleeds during pregnancy are much the same as for someone who is not pregnant. When you notice the blood, immediately sit down and tilt your head back. Apply pressure to the nostrils for a minimum of five minutes and ten minutes will be better. To apply pressure, bend your index finger and press it on one side of your nose and you thumb on the other side. Push toward your face to apply pressure to help the blood to clot. You can use an ice pack to constrict the blood vessels. If you don’t have an ice pack, a frozen food package will work. You will need to use the ice in addition to the pressure that you are holding on your nostrils. After ten minutes, check to see if the blood has clotted. If not, continue with the pressure and with the ice treatment. If you cannot stop the bleeding by 20 minutes, you should contact your physician.

A nosebleed during pregnancy or any other time can follow trauma to the nose. If you experience a head injury and your nose bleeds should contact your doctor immediately. Even if it is a small amount of blood and you stop the bleeding before the 20 minute period normally suggested for treatment. If you have had prior experience with your nose bleeding, let the doctor know.

There are things you can do to help keep your nasal membranes healthy. Drink plenty of water and other fluids that will keep you well hydrated. Your membranes will be hydrated if you have plenty of fluid in your system. Don’t sneeze with your mouth closed. This can cause a tremendous amount of pressure in your nose. Avoid things that dry out the membranes like heat (run humidifier) and smokers. You can use saline drops or lubrication to hydrate the nasal passages. Do not use nasal sprays or decongestants on a regular basis. These will cause your nasal passages to be very dry and irritated. If you are expecting a child and you experience nosebleeds during pregnancy, be sure you have discussed the problem with your physician.