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Using Nasal Decongestant Spray during Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
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Dr. Archana Bajaj (MBBS, DGO, DNB - Gynecologist)
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Nasal decongestant sprays are administered to the nasal passages as tiny drops of liquid. The ingredients in each nasal decongestant spray are quite different. Nasal Decongestant sprays are commonly used for sinusitis and allergies. But you should know about the ingredients of the nasal spray to ensure if it is safe to use during pregnancy.
Can You Use Nasal Spray in Pregnancy?
Use of nasal sprays for sinusitis, cold, or allergies for a long time is not recommended for any individual. These nasal decongestant sprays might make you addicted to it. Hence, the suggested time period for usage is about 2-3 days.
The safety of use of nasal spray during pregnancy depends on which type/category of nasal spray is being used. Except for the natural saline nasal spray (that contain saltwater only), every pregnant woman should consult a doctor before using any nasal decongestion spray.
Generally, the nasal decongestion spray works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal lining. There is a very high chance that these medications might cause constriction in blood vessels in the placenta and womb after entering the bloodstream. Hence, choosing the right nasal spray is very important.
Which Nasal Sprays are Safe for Pregnancy?
While a few medicines are unsafe during pregnancy, there are several FDA approved nasal sprays to cure sinus congestion. There are some pregnancy categories assigned by the FDA which is used in the FDA’s Drug Formulary. These categories help expectant women in differentiating between unsafe and safe nasal sprays. Following are the FDA-assigned categories.
Category A –The medications in this category have been adequately studied. The medications do not demonstrate a risk to the unborn baby in the 1st trimester of pregnancy and there is no proof of risk in the later trimesters.
Category B – Researches on animal reproduction do not indicate a risk to the unborn baby and there is inadequate research done on expecting women.
Category C –Animal reproduction research shows that the medicine has a bad effect on the unborn baby and there is inadequate research done for humans. But the potential advantages of the drug may permit the use of the drug in expectant women regardless of the potential risks.
Category D –There is potential evidence of risk on human babies based on adverse reaction data from research and studies conducted in humans. But the potential advantages of the may permit the use of the drug in expectant women regardless of potential risks.
Category X –Foetal abnormalities have been shown by studies conducted on humans and animals. There is potential evidence of risk on human babies based on adverse reaction data from research and studies conducted in humans and the risks involved in the use of the drug in expectant women outweighs the potential advantages which the drug might have.
Before administering any kind of nasal spray medications, you should learn about the various categories of medicines. This will help you to understand which sprays contain saline, steroids, blocks blood flow to the sinuses or are absorbed into the body. Also, do not take any medicines without doctor’s prescription.
Here are some examples of safe nasal sprays during pregnancy approved by the FDA Pregnancy Categories:
Prescription only nasal spray: Rhinocort Aqua (Category B)
Over the counter (OTC) nasal spray: Nasacort (Category C)
Another way to calm your sinuses is to use saline nasal spray during pregnancy. These nasal sprays are made only from salt and water. These saline solutions might not always remove your blockage for a long time but will help in decreasing any mucus build-up and will also moisturize the dry nasal passages instantaneously.
Pregnant women as recommended to use a saline nasal spray to calm your sinuses. If you have to use other nasal decongestant sprays, it is highly recommended that you consult your doctor and get a prescription for it.
Also Read:
Sneezing in Pregnancy
Snoring During Pregnancy Read more
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How to De-addict Your Kid from Mobile Phone
Hi my name is Yasmeen. I am a mother of two kids my elder son is 4 years old and my younger son is 7 months old. Being a mother of two kids was very busy on concentrating on my little one sometimes it was a very hectic day and even frustrating sometimes at that time I started giving mobile phone to my son. Before my second kid he was very active playing kid, socialising with everyone. But suddenly he started feeling lonely because my total time and attention was with my little one. At that time my elder son Ruhaan addicted to mobile phone by watching rhymes in you tube.
I didn't notice that much but day by day my son becoming very angry, irritating, frustrated not even talking on phone with his grandparents not having his food unless he has mobile phone in his hand..At tat time me n my husband noticed why this drastic change occurred in my son? We were worried abt our son..Then we had decided to solve this situation so my husband got an idea then he told my son that one of his friends daughter lost his eyes by seeing mobile phone every time by showing him some Google pics in which some babies have large and red eyes means the scary eyes, he saw those pics and got scared to touch mobile phone and his dad also promised him tat he will buy as many toys he want if he stop using mobile phone. That was the deal between dad and son. Finally thankfully my son stopped using mobile phone and he started playing with his toys and little brother ? We are happy parents now. Please my dear parents think wise n help ur kids not to addict mobile phone it can damage your child's brain and eyes.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Infant's Boon - Your Baby Will Love You For the Boon of Breastmilk
As the title describes, an infant's biggest boon is the Breastmilk. Breastfeeding is the greatest gift from a mother to her child. I am a new mom for my 3 month old baby. I would say this as my own experience than describing it as a story.
A motherly feeling comes as soon as the little embryo forms in her stomach. The next happy feeling is when she gets her baby in her arms. The only moment when she smiles when the baby cries. More than all these, a true motherly feeling comes when she nurses or feeds her baby in her breasts.
Breastfeeding at the beginning may be a little discomfort for the new moms. But a mom soon gets adapted to it, because there can be no one in the world to show love to a child more than her. Breastfeeding is not only a happy feeling for a mom but also for the child. No other food can replace it.
BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING FOR A MOM
Reduces stress level
Helps to maintain a balanced weight
Reduces risks of breast cancer
Reduces postnatal problems
BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING FOR A CHILD
Easier digestion
Improved functioning of the brain
Protects against several diseases
Security, affection, love, bonding
Proper weight gain
The happier a mom breastfeeds her child, the more happier the child is because of the happy hormones passing from a mom to her baby. On the other hand, when the mom is stressed and depressed, the same stress hormones pass to the baby and cause discomforts.
I would like to share a small story here that would explain the above point clearly. A mom was so stressed because her baby was crying so badly in the early days after birth. And this continued for a few days. He was sleeping neither during the day nor at night. Now she tried a positive thought that the baby is healthy and would sleep. To everyone's surprise, this actually happened ie, the baby stopped over crying and started sleeping.
MIRACLES OF BREASTFEEDING
When a mom doubts whether there is sufficient milk for the baby, the secretion of milk is also less. At the same time, really if the secretion is less, and now when she thinks its her baby and she has to only feed her baby with happiness and positive vibes, the milk secretion increases twofold. This is very surprising but the truth. The more the baby sucks and when the latching is proper, the more is the milk secretion. It's really a miracle.. right??? When you start giving positive vibes to your baby when you breastfeed, the baby grows the way you want them to.
LATCHING
Latching is nothing but how the baby fastens onto the breast while breastfeeding. To make this point clear , there's an image below for reference.
And at last but not least, breastfed babies are more stronger and powerful both mentally and physically. So I would like to end this with the title of my blog i.e., a child's greatest boon is breastmilk. So if you want a happy, loving, brainy, strong and the best-in-everything child, then breastfeed your baby for the first "six months".
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Travel Accessories for Women During Rains
Everyone enjoys the rains but you also worry about the damage it might cause to your hair and skin. With the occasional drizzle continuing well into September, you may want to reverse the damage! Let's see if you've got it right with our list of travel essentials for women in rainy season.
Monsoons are a much-awaited time among the young and old. The rainy season heralds a change of temperature and can urge you to hit the road and go for long drives and weekend trips. But before you strap on your backpack, there are a few travel essentials for women that you must be aware of.
Must-Have Monsoon Travel Bag Accessories for Women
1. Waterproof make-up
The last thing you want is your travel pictures highlighting running mascara and raccoon eyes. Ensure that you pack a few waterproof basics like mascaras, eyeliners and kajals as well as a stay-on lipstick or a lip balm.
2. Face tissues
Monsoons see high levels of humidity causing skin to become oily. Breakouts are also common. Moist face tissues are a must as part of travel accessories for women during monsoons. Carry a pack in your bag to pat away the oil from your face whenever you need to.
3. Hair oil
Rain water can cause dryness for some people so if you’re planning to prance around in the rain, make sure you hydrate your hair by applying hair oil for a couple of hours before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
4. Sunscreen
Many people think sunscreens are only for hot days without rain. However, the rays of the sun can damage skin in all seasons. A sunscreen is one of the must-have monsoon travel bag accessories for women. Don’t leave home without it!
5. Rain jackets and umbrellas
If you want to keep your hands free, rain jackets are a good idea, especially the hooded ones. However, it’s best to carry an umbrella along as a fallback in case the rain gets too heavy. Besides, a colourful umbrella goes a long way in adding a splash of style to your outfits.
6. Waterproof bag
You wouldn't want water streaks destroying your favourite bag, would you? One of the most important travel essentials for women in rainy season is a waterproof bag that remains protected from the rain no matter where you go.
7. Rain boots
Love splashing around in puddles? Ensure your feet are protected from germs and mud with a pair of sturdy rain boots. You can also choose rain shoes in a ballerina flat style as well as mid-tops to match different outfits.
Make the most of the rainy season while looking and feeling on top of the world with these travel tips. Enjoy the cool showers while still keeping yourself perfectly dry. Your trip will be a lot more fun when you’re prepared for anything. Read more
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
4 hours ago
Q. Q.Asktheexperta# I m an expecting mother of 29 yrs. LMP 10 Feb 2024 . my husband's HPLC report shows thalassemia minor trait while mine is hb d Punjab trait . can we continue with this pregnancy ??
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. Well you should check with your gynaecologist for that she has to go through all the reports and the issues that you are facing you and your husband and accordingly she can tell you what is the situation how your child is going because lot of things depend upon how the child is growing
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
3 hours ago
Q. Hi doctor, I had scan on 33 weeks 2 day, it stated that AC and HC Is <2.3% which is corresponding to 31 weeks. So overall growth of baby avg is 31 week and 2 days.
will there be any issue with the baby.I have attached my report
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. For the query asked needdhs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answer .
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. I am having pain on my right breast while breastfeeding. Latching position is correct. it is a mix of burning sensation and pain. Pain lasts for few minutes after breastfeeding also
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. nipcare ointments ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
2 hours ago
Q. When baby movement starts??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. 5-6 months ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
2 hours ago
Q. hello dr..I am 39 weeks 3 days pregnant, AFI level 8 is this normal?and normal delivery possible for me? Is the fluid enough for up to 1 week?Do I need a drip? please suggest me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. the levels are on the lower side. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
1 hour ago
Q. Hi.. Priyanka kalra doctor..I am 39 weeks 3 days pregnant, AFI level 8 is this normal?and normal delivery possible for me? Is the fluid enough for up to 1 week?Do I need a drip? please suggest me.
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
1 hour ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and it is quite difficult to say anything about it without personally examination and proper reports evaluation. So better to consult with your treating gynaecologist in person as she knew the exact health condition of your pregnancy and can guide you better.
Take care
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