When a woman undergoes pregnancy, she needs to be careful about the foods or medications she takes while pregnant because it could affect her health as well as the health of her baby. One common remedy, Vicks Vapor Rub, is often asked if it is safe to use. Find the answer here.

Can I Use Vicks Vapor Rub When Pregnant?

The Expert Opinion

There is usually instant relief provided when using Vicks Vapor Rub, especially for stuffy noses, colds and coughs. The expert’s opinion is that using it during pregnancy should be safe. Vicks also has several other products for treating these ailments. It is important to note that not all are considered safe for pregnant women.

They suggest avoiding using phenylephrine hydrochloride because it can reduce blood flow. It is suggested from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency that pregnant women, especially those who are concerned with pre-eclampsia, should avoid medicines containing this, including ointments. These chemicals can be vasoconstrictive and reduce blood flow to the placenta, thus causing harm to women who are carrying.

Different Products of Vicks

Can I use Vicks Vapor Rub when pregnant?The actual vapor rub doesn’t have phenylephrine hydrochloride in it, so is considered safe. In fact, because of the instant relief it can provide, it is often used and recommended for the chest, back and throat. It can also provide benefits by being added to hot water and the vapors breathed in.

Vicks First Defense Nasal spray and Vicks Inhaler are often considered safe for those who are pregnant. The Vicks Sinex Decongestant Capsules with 12.18mg of phenylephrine hydrochloride are not considered safe though. It is important to consult your doctor before using any medicine, to insure you don’t have a history that can cause a problem. Your doctor may suggest an alternative medicine.

How to Apply Vicks Vapor Rub While Pregnant

Can I use Vicks Vapor Rub when pregnant? Mostly, yes. For best results, apply Vicks Vapor Rub liberally about the throat and chest. Wear clothing that fits the neck and chest loose so the vapors will reach the nose and mouth to reduce nasal congestion and coughing. It shouldn’t be used on open wounds or inside the nose.

You should not ingest it, or use on broken skin, mouth, nose or eyes. If you are allergic to camphor, menthol or eucalyptus oil, you should not use it or discontinue use. You should stop use if a rash occurs. Talk to your doctor if you also have a headache or fever with the rash.

May Be Harmful to Toddlers or Infants

There is a study that indicates Vicks may stimulate inflammation of the airway and mucus production, which can cause drastic problems with infants and toddlers. Vicks ingredients can be irritants, and cause more mucus production to try and protect the airway. The young children and infants have narrower airways than adults, so this increase can be more problematic.

How to Treat a Cold or Cough During Pregnancy

Some of the following can help if you have a cold during your pregnancy, saving you worry "Can I use Vicks Vapor Rub when pregnant?"

• Get plenty of rest. Get a full night’s sleep, take naps, and try to relax as much as possible. Getting enough sleep and rest may be one of the most important parts of a healthy pregnancy.
• Drink enough fluids. Make sure you are taking in enough broth, juice, and especially water to insure you get enough fluids in your body.
• Eat healthy. You many not enjoy larger meals, but it’s still important to get fresh fruits, veggies, and good meats.
• Relieve congestion using a humidifier; keep one in your room or in the living room if you spend a great deal of time there. Nasal strips are also an approved way of helping congestion.
• Nibble on ice chips, sip warm tea, and gargle salt water warm to ease your sore throat.
• Try to keep the number of medications you take to a minimum. There are many that are not safe for use while pregnant that could cause harm.
• Tylenol or acetaminophen is perfect for fever relief, and ease of body and headaches.
• Throat lozenges can provide pain relief.
• Dextromethorphan and codeine can be used to suppress coughs.

When to Visit the Doctor

• If your symptoms are keeping you from sleeping or eating, then you should call your doctor.
• If your symptoms last for days without improving, call your doctor.
• Call immediately if you have a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
• If your mucus is discolored or you have wheezing or chest pain, contact your doctor. This may mean it’s time they give you an antibiotic for an infection.

How to Prevent Getting a Cold or Cough During Pregnancy

The best step in prevention is keeping a healthy lifestyle. Stick to healthy meals, sleeping regularly, and keep exercising. Also make sure to take your prenatal vitamins in addition to some probiotics. To help keep from picking up other germs, wash your hands regularly. This is especially important when eating, using the restroom, or wiping your nose and coughing.