Treating a cold during pregnancy can be especially difficult. There are certain medications that are considered safe, and those that you should only use after you enter your second trimester, reports OB focus. It is important to realize that any medications you take while pregnancy may enter fetal circulation. Be sure to contact your obstetrician prior to taking any medications.
Decongestants
It's best to avoid the decongestants pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, especially in the first 13 weeks of pregnancy, since there have been some reports of birth defects, says Baby Center. After 13 weeks, regular strength pseudophedrine may be used. When in your first trimester, saline nasal spray and Vapo-Rub may be helpful in relieving congestion.
Cough Suppressants
Dextromethrophan (Robitussin DM) is considered safe during pregnancy for the treatment of cough, reports OB focus. You may also try lozenges or warm liquids to alleviate cough and soothe the throat. Avoid any other cough medications or multi-symptom formulas unless directed by your physician. If you have a severe cough that is not responding to dextromethrophan, contact your obstetrician who may be able to prescribe a safe alternative.
Fever and Pain
You may experience fever and pain while pregnant. A safe medication to use for fever and pain during pregnancy is regular strength acetaminophen (Tylenol), reports OB Focus. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. The NSAID drug Ibuprofen (Motrin) should be avoided during pregnancy. New information also suggests that use of NSAIDs in the second and third months of pregnancy might increase the risk of birth defects, particularly those involving the heart, according to Baby Center.
