How to Tackle Pregnancy Nose: Causes and Solutions for Your Discomfort

As we embark on the extraordinary journey of pregnancy, we know that our bodies will experience a whirlwind of changes. Alongside the much-celebrated pregnancy glow and the delightful thick hair that many women relish, there are less glamorous transformations that come along with nurturing a little life. Swollen feet, a relentless urge to visit the bathroom, aching backs, and general weight gain can all become part of the everyday landscape. And just when you thought you’d seen it all, there comes the phenomenon known as “pregnancy nose.”

Pregnancy nose is not an official medical term, but it perfectly captures the noticeable changes that some women may experience in the shape and size of their noses during pregnancy. Picture this: you’re in your third trimester, and suddenly, your nose seems to have taken on a life of its own, appearing larger or even slightly swollen. If you think you’re alone in this experience, you’re in good company. Chrissy Teigen opened up about her own battle with pregnancy nose on Twitter back in 2018 while expecting her son Miles. And pop sensation Rihanna shared her experience with her first child, RZA, commenting on how her nose appeared wider during pregnancy, showing us that this is a common experience that many mothers-to-be face.

So what causes pregnancy nose? While it isn’t pinned down to a specific medical reason, the changes in our bodies are undoubtedly tied to the pregnancy itself. Not every woman will notice a difference, so consider this a reminder that each pregnancy is unique. Experts believe that the fluctuating hormones dancing around in your body, along with the increase in blood volume and fluid retention—common companions during pregnancy—can play a significant role. Unfortunately, there’s also the pesky condition known as pregnancy rhinitis, which can lead to nasal congestion, discomfort, and a symphony of sneezing. This added congestion may cause inflammation in the nasal passages and a surge of mucus, which can contribute to that swollen look you may find in the mirror.

Now, let’s address the burning question on your mind: Does pregnancy nose stick around? The reassuring news is that it’s usually just a temporary visitor. Like many of the other oddities you’ll face during pregnancy, pregnancy nose tends to fade away after childbirth as your hormone levels begin to stabilize. But just like every aspect of your pregnancy journey, the timeline for recovery can vary from one person to another. You may find that your nose returns to its familiar shape sooner than you expect, or it might take a bit longer, but rest assured, you’re not stuck with it forever.

Navigating through the myriad changes of pregnancy can be daunting, but remember, you’re embarking on a beautiful journey filled with milestones and transformations— some which may be unexpected, like pregnancy nose. It’s all part of the adventure of bringing new life into the world, and eventually, you’ll look back on it with a sense of pride, knowing that you embraced every little quirk along the way.