Your body produces up to 50% more blood during pregnancy. This extra fluid causes blood vessels throughout the body—including the tiny ones in your nasal passages—to expand and swell.
Seek medical evaluation if you experience: stuffy nose when pregnant
This paper is for informational purposes and does not replace individual medical advice. Pregnant individuals should consult their obstetric provider before starting any new medication. Your body produces up to 50% more blood during pregnancy
| Feature | Pregnancy Rhinitis | Common Cold | Allergic Rhinitis | |---------|--------------------|-------------|--------------------| | Duration | >6 weeks in pregnancy | 7–10 days | Variable, seasonal or perennial | | Fever | No | Possible | No | | Itchy eyes/nose | Rare | No | Common | | Discharge | Clear, watery or thick | Clear → yellow/green | Clear, watery | | Timing | Second trimester onward | Any time | After allergen exposure | greenish discharge for >
If you have fever, facial pain/pressure, greenish discharge for >10 days, or reduced fetal movement — rule out sinusitis or COVID-19/flu.
Baby (and tissues!) on board: Tips for managing pregnancy rhinitis