Natural Ways to Reduce Congestion

Try the following ways to relieve your nasal congestion naturally:

• Do not take prescription or over-the-counter decongestants, antihistamines, or cortisone nasal sprays without your doctor's advice, since some of them are not safe to take while pregnant.
• Humidify your bedroom air any time your central heating is on. (A warm-mist vaporizer works well).
• Keep your nasal membranes from drying out to reduce your chance of nose bleeds, another nuisance of pregnancy. They are usually mild and temporary enough to be controlled by a few minutes of pressure on the nostrils.
• Use facial steamers (available in cosmetic departments and beauty supply stores) to loosen secretions and relieve sinus congestion.
• Over-the-counter saline nasal spray is a safe and effective way to flush out a stuffy nose. Soon after delivery your nasal passages should be less congested.