Nosebleeds During Pregnancy: Causes, Prevention & Relief
27 Mar 2025
If you’re experiencing frequent nosebleeds during pregnancy, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Up to 20% of pregnant women get nosebleeds due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow.
The good news? Most pregnancy nosebleeds are harmless and can be easily managed at home. Let’s explore why they happen, how to stop them, and when to call your doctor.
Breathe through your mouth and keep steady pressure.
This helps constrict blood vessels and stop the bleeding faster.
Don’t pick or rub—this can restart the bleeding. If bleeding continues past 20 minutes, call your doctor!
You feel dizzy, faint, or have trouble breathing.
You lose a large amount of blood.
Nosebleeds happen frequently (more than a few times a week).
You have high blood pressure or severe headaches. Severe nosebleeds can be a sign of preeclampsia—always check with your doctor if you’re concerned!
Saline nasal sprays (pregnancy-safe) can also keep your nose moist.
Iron helps prevent anemia, which can make nosebleeds worse (eat spinach, lentils, lean meats). Tip: If you’re taking an iron supplement and experience nosebleeds, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage.
Why Do Nosebleeds Happen More Often During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, your body goes through major changes, including:1. Increased Blood Volume & Pressure
- Your body produces 50% more blood, which expands blood vessels, including those in your nose.
- This makes nasal capillaries more fragile and prone to bleeding.
2. Hormonal Changes (Estrogen & Progesterone)
- These hormones cause blood vessels to relax and widen, making them more likely to rupture.
3. Dry, Irritated Nasal Passages
- Pregnancy can make your nose feel more congested, leading to dryness and irritation.
- Cold weather, dry air, allergies, or frequent nose blowing can make it worse.
4. Sinus Congestion or Infections
- Pregnancy can cause rhinitis (stuffy nose), making you more likely to rub or blow your nose—which can trigger bleeding.
How to Stop a Nosebleed During Pregnancy
If your nose starts bleeding, follow these quick steps to stop it safely:1. Stay Calm & Lean Forward
Sit down and tilt your head slightly forward (NOT backward—this prevents swallowing blood).2. Pinch Your Nostrils for 10-15 Minutes
Use your thumb and index finger to pinch your nostrils shut.Breathe through your mouth and keep steady pressure.
3. Apply a Cold Compress
Place an ice pack or cold cloth on the bridge of your nose.This helps constrict blood vessels and stop the bleeding faster.
4. Avoid Blowing or Touching Your Nose
Wait at least an hour before blowing your nose.Don’t pick or rub—this can restart the bleeding. If bleeding continues past 20 minutes, call your doctor!
When to Call Your Doctor About a Nosebleed
Most pregnancy nosebleeds are harmless, but seek medical help if: Bleeding lasts longer than 20 minutes.You feel dizzy, faint, or have trouble breathing.
You lose a large amount of blood.
Nosebleeds happen frequently (more than a few times a week).
You have high blood pressure or severe headaches. Severe nosebleeds can be a sign of preeclampsia—always check with your doctor if you’re concerned!
6 Ways to Prevent Nosebleeds During Pregnancy
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink 8-12 cups of water daily to keep nasal tissues moist.2. Use a Humidifier
Sleeping with a humidifier helps prevent dryness and irritation.Saline nasal sprays (pregnancy-safe) can also keep your nose moist.
3. Avoid Blowing Your Nose Too Hard
If you must blow your nose, do it gently and one nostril at a time.4. Apply a Thin Layer of Petroleum Jelly or Coconut Oil
Dabbing a little Vaseline, coconut oil, or lanolin inside your nostrils can help prevent dryness.5. Don’t Overheat Indoors
Keep your home at a comfortable temperature and avoid dry, overheated air.6. Get Enough Vitamin C & Iron
Vitamin C helps strengthen blood vessels (eat oranges, strawberries, bell peppers).Iron helps prevent anemia, which can make nosebleeds worse (eat spinach, lentils, lean meats). Tip: If you’re taking an iron supplement and experience nosebleeds, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage.
