What Can Be Done for Seasonal Allergies When You’re Pregnant?

The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming and you are…Sneezing. If you’re dealing with seasonal allergies during pregnancy, you’re not alone, and you’re probably wondering what’s safe to take when you’re expecting.

At Nightingale Night Nurses, we work with families from bump to baby and know how important it is for expecting parents to feel both informed and cared for. Let’s break down what you can do to manage allergy symptoms safely while pregnant—so you can breathe easier (literally and emotionally).

Are Seasonal Allergies Common During Pregnancy?

Yes, seasonal allergies in pregnancy are very common. Your body may react to common allergens like pollen, dust, or mold just as it did before, or sometimes even more intensely due to increased blood volume and hormonal changes.

Symptoms might include:

• Sneezing and nasal congestion
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Fatigue from interrupted sleep

Can You Take Allergy Medicine While Pregnant?

This is one of the most searched questions about pregnancy allergies—and it’s a good one. The answer? Some allergy medications are considered safe during pregnancy, but not all.

Always consult your OB or midwife first. Every pregnancy is unique, and what’s safe for one person might not be recommended for another.

That said, here are a few general guidelines:

✅ Pregnancy-Safe Allergy Medications (with doctor approval):

• Antihistamines: Loratadine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec), and Chlorpheniramine are often considered low-risk.
• Nasal sprays: Some saline or steroid nasal sprays like Budesonide (Rhinocort) may be safe in moderation.
• Eye drops: Preservative-free artificial tears can help with itchy, watery eyes.

🚫 Medications to Use With Caution or Avoid Completely:

• Decongestants (like pseudoephedrine): Often not recommended, especially in the first trimester.
• Combination medications (cold/allergy blends): These may contain multiple ingredients not suitable during pregnancy.

Again—your provider is your best guide on this.

Natural Remedies for Allergies in Pregnancy

Prefer to steer clear of meds entirely? Here are some pregnancy-safe allergy relief tips to try at home:

1. Saline Rinse or Neti Pot

Flush pollen and irritants from your nasal passages with a sterile saline rinse. Just be sure to use distilled or previously boiled water.

2. Shower After Being Outdoors

Pollen can cling to your hair, skin, and clothes. A quick rinse after time outside can reduce symptoms indoors.

3. Keep Windows Closed

As lovely as fresh air is, pollen levels tend to spike in the morning and evening. Use air conditioning with a HEPA filter when possible.

4. Elevate Your Head at Night

Using extra pillows can reduce nasal swelling and help you breathe better while you sleep. If you’re on the stage where you already can’t sleep on your back we aren’t sure how comfortable this will be!

5. Use a Humidifier

Adding moisture to dry air can soothe irritated nasal passages. Just clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold growth.

6. Local Honey

Unfortunately this won’t help until next year. But regularly ingesting local honey is kind of like a vaccine for pollen. It helps you become less reactive to local strains of pollen for the following year.

When to Call Your Provider

If your symptoms are interfering with your sleep, eating, or breathing—or if you’re unsure whether your reaction is allergy- or cold-related—it’s worth checking in with your provider. They can help you find relief while keeping both you and your baby safe.

Pregnancy Is Hard Enough Without Allergy Season

We get it, pregnancy is a full-body experience, and seasonal allergies don’t exactly make things easier. But with the right strategies, relief is possible.

At Nightingale Night Nurses, we care for families long before baby arrives. From supporting expectant parents with newborn planning to helping with overnight newborn care once your little one is here, our mission is to make this transition as smooth and supported as possible.

Whether you’re struggling to sleep now from sneezing, or anticipating those sleepless newborn nights later, we’re here when you need us most.

Looking Ahead? Start Planning for Postpartum Support.

Learn how our overnight newborn care services can help you rest, recover, and embrace parenthood with confidence. Contact us today to learn more.