Suddenly getting nosebleeds? If you're pregnant, you're not alone! Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis, are surprisingly common during pregnancy. Blame it on increased blood volume and hormones. Your body produces more blood during pregnancy, putting extra pressure on those delicate blood vessels in your nose. Hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone, can also dilate these blood vessels, making them more susceptible to rupture.
While usually harmless, a nosebleed can be a bit alarming. Here's what you can do:
* **Stay Calm:** Panicking will only make it worse.
* **Pinch & Lean:** Gently pinch the soft part of your nose, just below the bony bridge, for 10-15 minutes. Lean forward slightly to prevent swallowing blood.
* **Hydrate:** Drink plenty of water to keep your nasal passages moist.
* **Humidify:** A humidifier, especially at night, can help prevent dryness.
If your nosebleeds are frequent, heavy, or accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, consult your doctor. Otherwise, consider this another quirky symptom of growing a tiny human!
