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Colds and Conception

Nothing to Sneeze About

By Ann Haarman

Try other comfort measures first; if those don't work, talk to your health care provider. Here's a symptom-by-symptom look at your options.

• Aches and pains – Try warm baths, massage and rest. Most experts agree that acetaminophen (like Tylenol) is safe. Avoid other painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. High doses "could actually induce a spontaneous abortion or a miscarriage," says Jan Hastings, PharmD, assistant professor of pharmacy practice at the University of Arkansas, Little Rock.
• Sore throat – Try saltwater gargles and tea or hot water with honey and lemon. Analgesic sprays may help. Acetaminophen is another safe choice.
• Stuffy nose – "Increase your fluid intake, and use a humidifier to rehydrate the air," Hastings advises. Try a saline nose spray to clear the nasal passages. Topical decongestants like oxymetazoline (Afrin) or phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine) are your next option. Try using a pediatric strength. "You shouldn't use [these] at any time – pregnant or not – for longer than three days maximum," Hastings says. If you're still uncomfortable, your doctor or midwife may recommend pseudoephedrine (Sudafed). "Pseudoephedrine is related to ephedrine, which is a naturally-occurring substance in our bodies, and so I feel a little more safe with it," Hastings says.


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