Understanding the Causes and How to Overcome Colds during Pregnancy

Pregnant women tend to be more susceptible to diseases, including colds. Although not harmful to the fetus, this condition can still interfere with pregnant women. Therefore, let us know the causes and how to overcome them. Colds can occur 2-3 times a year in adults, and usually this condition will quickly improve within a few days to a week. But in pregnant women, colds can occur more frequently and last longer.

Causes of Pregnant Women Prone to Colds

Pregnancy is a condition that can deplete the body's energy. In addition, the body's immune level will also naturally decrease when pregnant. This mechanism is carried out by the body to protect the fetus from being invaded by the immune system because it is 'suspected' of a foreign object. Both of these things make pregnant women vulnerable to disease. Therefore, pregnant women need to be more careful in maintaining a healthy body, so they are not susceptible to various diseases, including colds.

How to Overcome Colds during Pregnancy Naturally

Some of the following easy ways that pregnant women can do during colds, so that colds are quickly resolved and do not re-occur:

1. Increase rest time

During colds, pregnant women need more rest. This is necessary so that pregnant women are able to work optimally, so they can recover faster. In addition to sleeping at night, pregnant women can also take a nap or just sit and rest between work or activities.

2. Increase fluid intake

Every day, pregnant women are advised to drink about 2.5 - 3 liters of water, or the equivalent of 10-12 glasses of medium size. In addition to mineral water, juice or broth soup can also be an alternative source of additional fluids.

3. Eating fruits and vegetables

Pregnant women are encouraged to complete a healthy diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables. Mango, avocado, banana, apple, broccoli, and green vegetables can be an option for pregnant women consumption, because they contain many vitamins and antioxidants that can speed recovery.

4. Limit contact with sufferers

If you live at home or are close to someone who has a cold, ask the person to wear a mask. If you are in a public place or public facility, such as public transportation, pregnant women are recommended to use a mask to avoid contracting germs that have air. In addition, pregnant women are also advised to wash their hands with clean water and soap after contact with people who suffer from colds, or take a shower after a day of activities outside the home.

5. Exercise regularly

Pregnancy is not a reason not to exercise. As long as pregnant women are healthy, exercise can still be done. This habit can help boost the immune system. Types of sports that are safe for pregnant women include walking, gymnastics, and yoga.

6. Consume warm tea with honey and lemon

In addition to making the body feel more comfortable, this method can also help relieve sore throats that often accompany colds. As an alternative, gargling with warm water mixed with salt can also have a similar effect. Pregnant women are not recommended to overcome colds by taking over-the-counter medicines, without doctor's advice. Many colds contain drugs that should not be taken by pregnant women without doctor's approval, such as decongestants, antihistamines, aspirin, or ibuprofen. These types of drugs may have side effects on the fetus. Colds during pregnancy are common. However, if the complaint does not improve or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, extreme fatigue, high fever, or vomiting, pregnant women are advised to immediately see a doctor. Doctors can carry out checks and provide safe treatment for pregnant women.