If you’re a first-time mom, you probably don’t know which medications are safe during pregnancy, and it can be difficult to sift through all the options when you’re already experiencing cold symptoms. Regarding medications, there are plenty of no-nos, but many approved options too. One of the questions that pregnant women often ask is, “can you use Vicks Vaporub while pregnant NHS?” The NHS advises that Vicks Vaporub should not be used during pregnancy. It should not be applied to the chest or throat of pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding, as it may be absorbed into the bloodstream and be harmful to the baby. So make sure you don’t use Vicks when pregnant.
It is always best to consult your healthcare provider before taking any medications or using any over-the-counter products during pregnancy, as certain products may not be safe for you or your baby. Here’s everything you need to know, plus other tips and products to manage your health during pregnancy.
Can I use Vicks while pregnant?
The answer is it depends on the product. Vicks is a brand that sells several decongestants in vapor rubs, sprays, and tablets. Most people think of the vapor rub when they’re talking about Vicks, and thankfully, using Vicks vaporub pregnancy NHS while pregnant is safe. You can rub it directly on your chest, throat, or back for some congestion relief. You can also add it to hot water and inhale the vapor to help clear your sinuses.
That’s because Vicks vapor rub’s active ingredients are camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, and none of those pose any risk to you or your “peanut” when applied topically, as long as vapor rub isn’t ingested, which isn’t a good idea even when you’re not pregnant. You’re good to go!
Can you use Vicks Vaporub During Pregnancy and Other Vicks Products?
If the vapor rub alone isn’t helping with your cold symptoms, it’s safe for pregnant people to use a Vicks nasal saline spray. This nasal spray is non-medicated and safe to use while pregnant. It can help clear up stuffiness. Then, some Vicks products should only be used once you have received the all-clear from your doctor.
So the question, Is Vicks safe in pregnancy NHS? Please proceed with caution when it comes to Vicks during pregnancy. You should avoid products with ephedrine, as not enough is known about the effects on an unborn baby and phenylephrine hydrochloride while pregnancy.
Alternative Options for Managing Cold Symptoms During Pregnancy
Many other options exist for managing cold symptoms during pregnancy beyond Vicks products. Some natural remedies to try include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm liquids like water, tea, and broth, helps thin out mucus and keeps your throat and nasal passages hydrated.
- Using a humidifier or taking hot showers to add moisture to the air can help soothe congestion.
- Trying nasal irrigation with a saline solution to help clear out nasal passages.
- Sleeping with your head elevated to help drain mucus from your sinuses.
- Use nasal decongestant sprays or saline nasal sprays, but be sure to consult with your doctor first.
- Taking over-the-counter pain relief medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol) helps manage body aches and pains. Follow the dosage recommendations on the bottle and consult with your doctor first.
It’s important to remember that while many of these remedies can help ease cold symptoms, they cannot cure a cold. The best way to manage a cold during pregnancy is to rest, stay hydrated, and follow your doctor’s recommendations. If your symptoms persist or get worse, be sure to consult with your doctor for further treatment. If you are about to be a mom, use NHS Pregnancy Calculator to get the approximate due date.