Being pregnant comes with many changes physically, mentally, emotionally, and environmentally. Remember, you are growing a human inside your body – that is a lot of work! In order to provide the best environment for your little one, there are things to keep in mind regarding physical activity and substances. In general, it is widely known that pregnant women undergo certain restrictions throughout their pregnancy such as cutting out drinking alcohol and smoking, avoiding hot tubs, and refraining from taking certain medications.

But what about natural substances? Are there dangers in using natural remedies for minor treatments when pregnant? Unfortunately, yes. Just because something is a natural substance, does not make it safe for everyone to use, especially those who are pregnant. If you are suffering from nasal congestion or sinus infection and looking for safe options, consider these three natural sinus remedies while pregnant.

Nasal Irrigation (Neti Pot)

When you are congested, fluid build-up in the nasal cavity can lead to serious sinus infections that can last anywhere from 4 weeks up to 12 weeks!  Thankfully, nasal irrigation can prevent this build-up from happening and clear out any current infection in the area. The best part? It is a safe alternative to taking sinus medicine while pregnant!

But what is nasal irrigation and how can it help? Simply put, nasal irrigation is when you flush out the nasal passages with a sterile solution. While there are synthetic solutions out there that can be added to a Neti Pot, we do not recommend them as they can be abrasive and may cause more long-term damage.

Instead, add a gentle, natural mineral salt solution to warm distilled water. There should not be any burning or stinging sensation when irrigating. Do not use table salt, as it is processed to strip minerals and contains anti-clumping additives. Once your Neti Pot is ready, insert the spout in one nostril and tip the pot. The solution should travel through the sinuses and drain through the opposite nostril.

Essential Oil Steam

Another way to fight sinus infection while pregnant is through the use of essential oils steam. Inhaling steam is a great way to naturally stimulate sinus drainage to remove the infection in the sinuses. You can either add a few drops of essential oils to the tub while taking a hot shower or add a few drops to a bowl of boiling water and inhale deeply with a towel over your head. Eucalyptus is generally safe for pregnancy and is great for the sinuses.

Keep in mind that some essential oils are too abrasive to use during pregnancy. Make sure that any essential oil blends used during pregnancy do not contain any of the following oils:

  • Aniseed
  • Basil
  • Birch
  • Camphor
  • Clary Sage
  • Hyssop
  • Mugwort
  • Oak Moss
  • Parsley Seed or Leaf
  • Pennyroyal
  • Peppermint
  • Rosemary
  • Rue
  • Sage
  • Tansy
  • Tarragon
  • Thuja
  • Thyme
  • Wintergreen
  • Wormwood

Aromatherapy

Along the same lines as steaming, aromatherapy such as diffusing essential oils or using a humidifier can help provide lasting relief from sinus symptoms and it is safe for pregnant women.

It’s important to stay healthy while you’re pregnant, but that’s not always an easy feat. However, with these natural sinus remedies while pregnant, you can easily – and safely – feel better quickly.