Sniffling & Sneezing Your Way through Colds & Flu when Pregnant or Breastfeeding Disclaimer: This page houses important information and resources pertaining to colds and the flu during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, including links to our evidence-based Fact Sheets. However, the resources here should not replace the care and advice of a medical professional. The common cold may have you looking for medications you can use to treat symptoms such as cough, sore throat, …
The Baby Blog: Cold & Flu
Ho, Ho, Ho, Who Wouldn’t Go? Holiday Travel in the Time of COVID-19
Chelsea’s chat came through late on a Wednesday afternoon: “Hi, I’m 23 weeks pregnant and have plans to visit my family in a different state this holiday season. My sister just had a baby and is breastfeeding, and my grandparents will also be there, so I want to be as safe as possible with COVID-19 still spreading. What do you think I should do?” With Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa all quickly approaching, questions like this are coming into our chat service more frequently. …
Ibuprofen
This sheet talks about using ibuprofen in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider. What is ibuprofen? Ibuprofen is a pain reliever drug that belongs to the group known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used to treat arthritis, headaches, muscle aches, fever, and menstrual cramps. The brand names for ibuprofen include Motrin®, Advil®, and Nuprin®. Ibuprofen is also an …
Antiviral Medications to Prevent/Treat Influenza (the Flu)
This sheet talks about exposure to antiviral medications in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare providers. What are antiviral medications and what do they do? Antiviral medications are used to treat viral illnesses. This fact sheet focuses on antiviral medications that are used to treat influenza (the “flu”). Symptoms of influenza may include fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, coughing, …
Pregnant & the Flu Vaccine? Why It’s More Important Than Ever during the COVID-19 Pandemic
“I just found out I am pregnant. I’ve heard that it is really important to get the flu shot this fall, but is it still OK now that I am pregnant?” The woman on the other end of the phone line sounded cautious and concerned. I told her, “I’m so glad you called to ask about this. The influenza vaccination may be even more important for pregnant women. The coronavirus pandemic has given us a lot to worry about without adding influenza infections to the mix. Let …
