Nasal stuffiness during pregnancy

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the occurrence of nasal stuffiness during pregnancy.

Study design: Prospective longitudinal study, with collection of data during 1 year in a cohort of 2,264 pregnant women.

Methods: Self-reported nasal stuffiness in gestational weeks 12, 20, 30, and 36 was correlated to age, parity, body mass index, and smoking habits.

Results: The prevalence of nasal stuffiness increased during pregnancy and occurred in 27% of the women at 12 weeks of gestation, in 37% at 20 weeks, in 40% at 30 weeks and in 42% at 36 weeks. Sixty-five percent of the women reported stuffiness at some time when asked. It was commoner in multiparous than in nulliparous women. Age, body mass index, and smoking habits were not associated with nasal stuffiness.

Conclusion: Self-reported nasal stuffiness for 3 or more weeks was common during pregnancy and could occur at any time in two thirds of the women. Treatment regimens to alleviate this symptom should be developed.