Nosebleeds During Pregnancy

by Sharon Hopkins


A woman’s life as well as her body goes through some major transformation during the course of pregnancy. These changes begin right from the conception stage and continue to take place over the next nine months or perhaps even after the baby is born. Unfortunately, not all the changes that a woman goes through during pregnancy are pleasant. Some of the most common symptoms of pregnancy include breast tenderness, morning sickness, food sensitivities, weakness, fatigue and abdominal cramps. Many women have been known to experience uncomfortable symptoms like severe headaches and nosebleeds during pregnancy.

There are several reports on pregnancy and nose bleeds, which claim that this is a normal occurrence, even though it can be quite scary. Changes in the levels of estrogen and progesterone lead to an increase in the volume of blood that is pumped through the body. It is only natural for the blood vessels to expand in order to accommodate the flow of additional blood. This increase of blood could put excess pressure the walls of the tiny blood vessels of the nose, causing the nasal membrane to swell and bleed. It is mainly this increase of blood as well as the additional pressure on the blood vessels located in the nose that causes a bleeding nose during pregnancy.

It is a well-known fact that hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy are responsible for many of the changes that take place within the body. However, not all instances of nosebleeds during pregnancy are a result of hormonal fluctuations. There could be other factors too that cause nose bleeds in early pregnancy. Most women are more prone to allergies, sinuses, common colds and other such minor ailments when they are pregnant. These infections, though not very serious, could cause the nasal passages to dry out. A dry nose is one of the most common causes of nosebleeds in people, especially pregnant women.

Though a nosebleed during pregnancy is quite common, it is important to let the doctor know about it. This is because some instances of a bleeding nose could be an indication of high blood pressure. This is quite a serious condition and needs to be controlled immediately. At times, nosebleeds could also be indicative of clotting problems caused by nutritional deficiencies.

Therefore, women who suffer from more than one or two episodes of bleeding nose during pregnancy are strongly advised to seek medical attention without any delay. In case the bleeding is uncontrollable or causes difficulties in breathing, women should seek emergency medical help.

Nosebleed Remedies

There are several different remedies for nose bleeds that not only help stem the flow of blood, but also prevent the bleeding from occurring again. Given below are some of the most commonly recommended remedies for nose bleeds:

  • Vinegar: This effective nose bleeding remedy works by sealing up the blood vessel walls in the nasal passages. Dip a small piece of cotton in some white vinegar and wring out the excess liquid. Plug the nostril that is bleeding with the vinegar-dipped cotton.
  • Ice: This is one of the most effective remedies in treating nosebleeds. An ice pack, or even a cold compress, placed on the bridge of the nose is very effective in healing the ruptured blood vessels and curbing the flow of blood. Many people use a packed of frozen vegetables, which is just as effective.
  • Zinc: Foods that contain high levels of zinc are excellent for bleeding problems, as this nutrient helps maintain the blood vessels in the body. Some of the foods that can help prevent nosebleeds include whole wheat bread, brown rice and popcorn.
  • Leafy greens: Vitamin K, usually present in most green leafy vegetables helps reduce bleeding, as it promotes proper blood clotting. Therefore, increasing the intake for fresh green vegetables can help prevent frequent nosebleeds.
  • Vitamin C: One effective method of avoiding nosebleeds is by preventing the rupture of blood vessels. The consumption of Vitamin C rich foods helps the body produce more collagen, which moistens the lining of the nose. Therefore, oranges and fresh orange juice are excellent remedies for nose bleeds.
  • Steam: Breathing in steam is a great way to hydrate the nasal canals, which reduces the risks of nosebleeds. While it is best to go through the proper steaming procedure of inhaling steam from a pot of freshly boiled water, taking a steam bath twice a day is also quite effective.
  • Water: You should drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water each day as this helps to keep the body well hydrated, and this also includes the nasal passages. Therefore, high consumption of water can help reduce the risks of nosebleeds caused by nasal dryness.

The home remedies for nose bleeding mentioned above are quite safe if used correctly, but it is important to check with a doctor before trying any of them.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
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