Cold & Flu in Pregnancy

Catching a cold or flu during pregnancy can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure what’s safe to take.  The good news is that most cold and flu symptoms can be safely managed at home. 

The key is knowing what’s recommended, what to avoid, and when to seek medical advice.  Before taking any medication should you check with your maternity provider first.

First Things First: Rest, Hydration, and Simple Care

Before reaching for medications, start with the basics:

• Rest as much as possible
• Stay well hydrated (water, soups, electrolytes)
• Use honey and lemon for sore throat 
• Saline nasal sprays or rinses for congestion
• Warm showers or steam for sinus relief

These simple measures are often enough for mild symptoms.

What Medications Are Generally Considered Safe

Always check with your midwife, GP, or pharmacist—but in general: Paracetamol (Panadol)

• Safe to use in pregnancy for fever, headaches, and body aches
• Important for reducing fever, especially with flu-like illness

Saline nasal sprays

• Completely safe and helpful for congestion

Some antihistamines

• May be used for runny nose or hay fever symptoms (check individual brands)

Cough remedies

Dry cough

• Dextromethorphan
• Pholcodine

Chesty/productive cough

• Guaifenesin (helps loosen mucus)
• Bromhexine (mucolytic)

What to Be Cautious WithNot all over-the-counter cold and flu medications are safe in pregnancy. Avoid or seek advice before using:

• Combination cold & flu tablets (often contain multiple drugs)
• Decongestants (especially oral ones like pseudoephedrine)
• Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatories (unless specifically advised)

Checking each ingredient individually rather than assuming a product is safe - ask your maternity provider.

Flu in Pregnancy: Why It Matters More

Pregnancy changes your immune system, which means you may become more unwell from influenza compared to non-pregnant women.  If you develop flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, cough, fatigue), early assessment is important.

• Paracetamol is recommended to manage fever
• Antiviral medications may be prescribed if needed
• Do not delay seeking care if symptoms are significant

When to Seek Medical Review

Contact your midwife, GP, or maternity unit if you have:

• A fever that doesn’t settle with paracetamol
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Reduced fetal movements
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
• Symptoms that are worsening rather than improving

Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, get checked.

A Note on Prevention

The flu vaccine is safe and recommended during pregnancy.  Simple measures like hand hygiene, avoiding unwell contacts, and rest also go a long way.

Getting sick in pregnancy is never convenient—but it’s common, and most women recover without complications.  The most important things are:

• Keeping it simple
• Using safe, evidence-based options
• Knowing when to ask for help

You don’t have to guess your way through it—support is always there when you need it.

If you’re unsure about any medication or symptoms, always reach out for individual advice. Your care should always be tailored to you and your pregnancy.