Help! Congestion & cough at 18 weeks

riabaes

It is summer here, yet I caught a nasty bug from my co-workers. Is it ok to have cold (congested and coughing) during second trimester? I'm very worried thinking this virus may pass to the baby. Am I just panicking for no reason? What care should I take to get rid of this bug as soon as possible? Thank you!

DandT2point0

Your OB should have a list of approved meds you can take for various ailments. My doc's practice has a list on their website. Make sure you stay on top of your fluid intake as well!

delujm0

You can take what is on your doctor's approved list of OTC drugs, or give your doctor a call and get a z- pack prescription. You won't be able to take any of the really good OTC stuff really, so I always thought the z-pack was preferable. The cold itself carries no risk to baby.

suteki325

I feel your pain! I'm also 18 weeks and have had the worst cold this past week. My doctor said it was okay to take Claritin, Benadryl (which was a lifesaver to me in helping me sleep at night), and Mucinex. But I would call your own doctor just to be sure. And definitely drink LOTS of water! Feel better soon!

AggieKim

Tons upon tons of women have colds during pregnancy. I had one within a week of giving birth to my son. As far as I know, there is no evidence of your unborn baby being harmed by one of the viruses that produce "common cold" symptoms. Everyone's doctor approves different medications that are safe to take while pregnant. If you don't have a list, maybe ask your local pharmacist for a recommendation. Viruses usually have to run their course and often there isn't anything you can do to shorten their course, other than take care of yourself. Get good sleep, drink plenty of water, take it easy. The best thing you can do to reduce your misery is treat your symptoms. Tylenol-acetaminophen for pain/pressure, and whatever other cold meds approved for pregnant women. Hope you feel better soon, but rest easy as I don't think there is any concern for your pregnancy.

MagPie 1986

delujm0 said:

You can take what is on your doctor's approved list of OTC drugs, or give your doctor a call and get a z- pack prescription. You won't be able to take any of the really good OTC stuff really, so I always thought the z-pack was preferable. The cold itself carries no risk to baby.

a zpack won't replace good over the counter meds. a zpack is an antibiotic and 99% of colds are viruses and just have to run their course.  you will be miserable but take what's OB approved over the counter and drink lots of fluids. most viruses last up to 10 days.

riabaes

Thank you, ladies. Your responses definitely put my mind at ease!! Lots of fluids and plenty of rest is what I'm doing. Thanks again!