Having nosebleeds can be quite scary, especially when you are pregnant. However, it is important to remember that nosebleeds are a normal symptom of pregnancy and that they are very common. Although a woman can have a nosebleed at any time during their pregnancy, they are most common during the second and third trimesters.
Nosebleeds are more likely during pregnancy as the hormones progesterone and oestrogen encourage your blood vessels to widen to allow better circulation. The veins in your nose are also very delicate and this increased blood flow can easily put too much pressure on them.
Nosebleeds during pregnancy are more common during the winter months when our noses can easily get blocked with colds, although they can happen at any time of the year. Nosebleeds can also happen at any time during the day and it is possible that you wake in the morning to discover blood on your pillow and bedding or that you wake during the night to a nosebleed.
During a nosebleed you may find that blood flows from either one or both of your nostrils. You may find that the flow is very light or possibly quite heavy. Your nose may bleed for just a few seconds or even for more than ten minutes.
A nosebleed can be quite frightening as it can look like you are losing a lot of blood although in the majority of cases it looks like more blood than there really is and there is no need to worry or seek medical advice.
What do I do if I have a nosebleed?
It is important to not panic or get distressed if you discover that you have a nosebleed. You should follow these instructions calmly.
- Sit down and pinch the soft part of your nose (just above your nostrils) for at least 10 minutes.
- Try to lean forward and keep your back straight
- Breathe through your mouth
- Place a covered ice pack on the bridge of your nose if necessary
If you have had a nosebleed, you will need to be extra careful for the next 12 hours not to over-strain your nose and encourage it to start bleeding again. You should avoid blowing your nose and try to keep your head higher than your chest at all times.
Can I prevent nosebleeds?
The following are ways that you can try to reduce the risk of getting nosebleeds
- Do not over-blow, scratch or pick at your nose
- Try not to let your nose get too dry. You can use petroleum jelly to keep your nostril moist.
- You should not allow yourself to get dehydrated
Should I seek medical help?
- You should speak to your doctor if you:
- have a nosebleed that lasts more than 20 minutes
- have regular nosebleeds
- have very heavy nosebleeds
If you have any concerns about nosebleeds during pregnancy, you should speak to your midwife or your doctor who will be able to offer you advice, help and reassurance.
by Jenny, mum to William and James
