Since my second trimester began i've had several nosebleeds. Why?
Inconvenient and even embarrassing as they can be, nosebleeds are a perfectly normal pregnancy symptom. Pregnancy can cause the blood vessels in your nose to expand and your increased blood supply puts even more pressure on those delicate veins. The membranes inside your nose may also dry out, especially in cold weather, air conditioned rooms, airline cabins, and other dry environments. These changes can cause those veins to rupture quite easily, bringing about minor nosebleeds.
How can I stop a nosebleed?
When your nose starts to bleed, remain seated, keep your head higher than your heart, and put pressure on the bleeding nostril for five to ten minutes (use a watch — it's longer than you think). Using your thumb and index finger, firmly pinch together the whole lower soft part of your nose and exert pressure against the bone of your face. Don't let up for a second (even if you're getting very curious to see if the bleeding has stopped!) because that will ruin the coagulation process. Using ice can help too, since it constricts blood vessels. Hold a cold pack or a bag of frozen peas over your nose and cheeks with the hand that's not pinching your nostrils closed. Don't lie down or tilt your head back: you'll end up swallowing blood, which could cause nausea or even vomiting. Consult your healthcare practitioner if you have frequent nosebleeds or if the bleeding doesn't stop after ten minutes of pressure.
Can I do anything to avoid them?
• drink extra fluids to help keep all your tissues, including the mucous membranes, well hydrated.
• blow your nose gently. Aggressive blowing can lead to nosebleeds.
• try to keep your mouth open when you sneeze.
• avoid dry air, especially in wintertime or in dry climates, by running a humidifier inside your house and not overheating your bedroom.
• use a lubricant to prevent nasal dryness. Some experts recommend petroleum jelly, while others suggest a special water-based nasal lubricant made for this purpose (available over-the-counter, just ask your pharmacist). Saline nasal sprays or drops can help too.
• don't overuse medicated nasal sprays or decongestants. They can dry out and further irritate your nose.
