Can I Use Sore Throat Spray When Pregnant?

If you are pregnant and have a bothersome sore throat, one of the first things you may reach for is a sore throat spray. However, you may be wondering whether certain sore throat sprays are safe to use when pregnant. Medstar is here to provide accurate information for the question “Can I use sore throat spray when pregnant?”.

At the Medstar Clinic in London, our ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists understand your concern for both your health and your baby's. In this article, we will explore what causes sore throats during pregnancy, the symptoms, and options for safe treatment—including which sore throat sprays you can use. Let’s start!

What Causes a Sore Throat During Pregnancy?

As with non-pregnant individuals, the most common cause of a sore throat when pregnant is from a viral infection like a cold or the flu. However, there are a few factors that can make pregnant women more prone to throat issues:

• Hormonal changes: Rising progesterone and oestrogen levels can cause the mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and lungs to swell more easily. This makes you more susceptible to infections.

• Lowered immunity: During pregnancy, your immune system is suppressed slightly in order to avoid rejecting the fetus. This provides an easier opportunity for viruses and bacteria to take hold.

• GERD and acid reflux: Hormones cause the upper part of the stomach to relax. This allows contents to rise more easily into the oesophagus, potentially irritating the throat. Morning sickness can also cause stomach acid to rise.

It is quite normal for expectant mothers to experience sore throats from time to time due to various pregnancy-related physiological factors. Knowing the cause can help you choose the safest treatment options.

Symptoms of a Sore Throat in Pregnancy

Some common signs that you have a sore throat while pregnant include:

• Pain or irritation when swallowing

• Redness and swelling at the back of the throat

• Hoarseness or changes in your voice

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

• Dry, scratchy feeling in the throat

• Pain that may radiate to the ears

• Fever (with strep or other bacterial infections)

• Feeling like something is stuck in your throat

Like with any sore throat, it is usually not anything to seriously worry about. But if symptoms of sore throat are severe or accompanied by a fever, it is best to see our doctors at Medstar Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Clinic to rule out strep throat or another infection. They can guide you on the proper treatment.

How to Treat a Sore Throat While Pregnant?

The first line of defence when pregnant is usually lifestyle remedies to soothe throat discomfort naturally:

• Get plenty of rest.

• Drink warm fluids like tea with honey or chicken soup.

• Gargle with warm saltwater rinses.

• Apply a warm compress to the throat.

• Use lozenges with chamomile or peppermint oil.

• Take an over-the-counter medication if needed.

If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may recommend one of the following safe sore throat spray options or medicines to use during pregnancy:

• Chloraseptic spray—This numbing spray contains phenol and benzocaine, both deemed low-risk during pregnancy in small doses from sprays. Be sure to use only as directed.

• Cepacol lozenges—These popular throat drops are simple to use and contain safe ingredients like menthol to reduce pain.

• Lidocaine viscous oral solution — Used as a lubricant or numbing agent, this prescription medicine is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG).

• Benadryl—Diphenhydramine in a tablet or liquid form is commonly used by OB/GYNs for allergy relief and as a nighttime sleep aid. It helps dry up postnasal drainage.

• Saltwater gargles —A homemade solution can be as effective as store-bought sprays or lozenges and avoid any unnecessary medication exposure.

Calcium lozenges or warm fluids—keeping hydrated can help thin out mucus and soothe pain. Also, it is best to avoid very hot liquids that could further irritate your throat. If you also want to learn more about other ENT diseases, make sure to check out “How to Recover from Glandular Fever?” and “Can Tonsils Cause Ear Infections?”.

Safe Medication for Sore Throat While Pregnant

When used as directed and for short periods, many over-the-counter sore throat remedies have not shown a likely risk for negative impacts on a developing fetus, according to the available research. It is still always recommended to speak to your doctor before using any new medication during pregnancy. 

They can advise if a particular product is appropriate based on your personal health history, risk level, and stage of pregnancy. A qualified physician can also monitor for any potential issues and recommend stronger prescription treatment if needed.

At Medstar Clinic, our goal is to give you expert guidance specific to your own situation. You do not need to cope with discomfort alone. Do not hesitate to book an appointment if managing pain at home has not provided enough relief. 

You can easily book your appointment via the Medstar website or the Medstar app. You can download our app from both the App Store and Google Play Store. You can also call, email, or write on WhatsApp to schedule your appointment if it works the best for you.

Our ENT doctors are here to evaluate your symptoms, determine the cause, and ensure both Mom and baby stay healthy and comfortable. We offer convenient online booking through our website as well as same-day urgent appointments. Your safety and your growing family's well-being are our top priorities.

Women's Health Clinic in London

Medstar Clinic does not just see patients for ENT issues like sore throats. As a leading women's health provider in London and surrounding areas, we also have obstetricians, gynaecologists, midwives, and other specialists dedicated to caring for women throughout all stages of life—from puberty to pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond into menopause.

Our team understands that expecting mothers may have many questions during each trimester regarding their body's changes, what signs and symptoms are normal versus cause for concern, and which over-the-counter or prescription medications are considered low-risk to use. 

That is why we take time with each patient to fully address concerns, review necessary medical tests and checkups, and help create customized care plans when needed. Comfort and high-quality care are at the core of what we provide. Therefore, we provide exceptional female health check services in London.

Our state-of-the-art Women's Health Clinic (Gynaecology) centre features a calm, soothing environment with all the modern amenities you need for a healthy pregnancy. You can easily access your online patient portal and medical records through our website too. 

Whether you are dealing with a sore throat or have broader pregnancy questions, do not hesitate to contact us directly or make an appointment online with our team of specialists. Medstar London is ready to help!

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