Can You Use Vicks While Pregnant? (What About Other Vapor Rubs?)
Being sick is never fun, but it can be especially tough during pregnancy when your treatment options are limited. Unfortunately, many common over-the-counter cold and flu medicines have ingredients that just aren’t safe in pregnancy. If you’re hoping to get relief from a stuffy nose and uncomfortable congestion you might be wondering: Can I use Vicks while pregnant? The good news is that, when used appropriately, it’s generally considered safe. Here, experts share more about the benefits, risks and efficacy of Vicks VapoRub for pregnant women.
Dealing with a miserable cold and asking yourself: Can I use Vicks while pregnant? Rest assured that it’s generally safe to use Vicks VapoRub during pregnancy (along with other camphor- and menthol-based rubs)—as long as you use as directed, says Laura Riley, MD, chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City.
That said, you’ll definitely want to be cautious. Vicks Vaporub is meant to be applied topically—and it’s most definitely the only way pregnant people should utilize the product. According to research from animal testing, when ingested or used internally (i.e. inside the mouth, nose, etc.), camphor can cross the placenta and have adverse—potentially even fatal—effects. Given that information, it’s natural to wonder if camphor absorbed by the skin can cross the placenta and cause any harm, says Jennifer Jolorte Doro, MS, a maternal health expert, birth doula, certified breastfeeding counselor and clinical nutritionist in New York City.
But as Stephanie Hack, MD, ob-gyn and host of the Lady Parts Doctor podcast, explains, Vicks VapoRub and similar products “work as topical decongestants and muscle relaxants, and do not typically enter the bloodstream in significant amounts.” That said, while Vicks is considered safe in pregnancy, you should always consult your provider before trying any new medication or remedy in pregnancy.
Where can you apply vaporub while pregnant?
Vapor rubs, including Vicks VapoRub, can be safely used as directed on your chest, throat and back to relieve congestion, body aches and joint pain, Hack says—but never apply them internally, such as inside your nose or mouth. “It’s also a good idea to avoid applying them to broken or irritated skin too,” Hack adds.
Curious whether other Vicks products are safe for pregnancy? According to Hack, it’s safe to use products including Vicks VapoPatch and Vicks VapoShower tablets, both of which can ease congestion and other cold symptoms. Just use caution with the tablets, as steam showers may cause dizziness. Plus, use warm rather than hot water, as you’ll want to watch your body temperature in pregnancy.
While vapor rub products are safe, you’ll want to avoid Vicks products you’d have to consume or use internally, such as certain nasal sprays, Vicks Nyquil and Vicks Dayquil. “Products containing high doses of menthol or camphor, or those designed for inhalation in high concentrations (like Vicks Sinex sprays), should be used sparingly or avoided unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider,” Hack says.
If you’re looking for pregnancy-safe remedies that can help your congestion and other symptoms, or if you’re just looking to avoid Vicks products and other medications, there are plenty of home remedies that can do the trick. “Vicks VapoRub is typically used as a cough suppressant and topical analgesic, [and] there are many other natural alternatives to ease these symptoms,” Doro says. Below, some home-remedy suggestions from experts:
Use steam to clear congestion
This could be in the form of a steamy shower (just watch your body temperature) or a warm towel placed over your forehead and sinus cavities. Hack also suggests nasal saline sprays or drops to clear congestion, as well as a humidifier to moisturize dry nasal passages.
Drink warm liquids
Warm beverages are great for soothing sore throats and coughs. This includes warm water with honey and lemon, as well as ginger tea, which can also help with managing nausea, Hack says.
Eat a nutritious diet
“Consume vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc and iron-rich foods along with your prenatal vitamin to ensure you’re obtaining all the rich nutrients to boost your immune system,” suggests Doro. She cites bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms and lentils as great immunity-boosting options.
Try magnesium for muscle pain relief
Doro recommends magnesium, either in the form of an oil, lotion or supplement, as a great alternative to vapor rubs.
Take Tylenol
“For pain and fever, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is typically considered safe during pregnancy, but always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication,” Hack says.
Try accupressure
Doro says that certain acupressure points can help relieve pressure and congestion during the cold season.
Use an herbal salve
Doro cites ingredients such as eucalyptus, lavender, chamomile and rosemary—which are also usually found in salves for babies—as ones to look for. But, again, check in with your doctor before using any topical herbal salve, as certain herbs aren’t safe for pregnancy.
Get enough rest
Both experts emphasize the importance of getting enough rest while sick, especially in pregnancy. “Your body is working overtime with increased metabolic function, increased blood flow and hormonal fluctuations—a cold may be a way your body is asking you to slow down a bit,” Doro says.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use menthol rubs while pregnant?
Both Doro and Hack say menthol rubs are safe to use during pregnancy, but always check in with your provider.
Is menthol inhalation safe in pregnancy?
While camphor isn’t safe to inhale in large amounts, menthol inhalation is safe in pregnancy and can help “soothe nasal passages and reduce congestion,” Hack says. This can be especially helpful when dealing with allergies or a cold. However, you’ll want to avoid using it excessively or for long periods of time. If you find yourself needing to inhale menthol-based medications often, discuss it with your provider, who can offer other potentially safer alternatives.
How should you treat a cold while pregnant?
You’ll want to avoid most over-the-counter cold and flu medications, as they could be unsafe during pregnancy, Hack says. The best way to treat a cold while pregnant is by taking care of yourself. Get enough rest, get ample hydration and eat a nutritious diet. “You can manage symptoms with pregnancy-safe remedies like saline nasal sprays, warm saltwater gargles, honey and lemon tea for sore throats and using a humidifier,” she says, adding that Tylenol can also be safe to treat fevers and body aches with your provider’s go-ahead.
Unfortunately, dealing with a cold or any type of congestion during pregnancy can be a little more complicated. While select medications, such as Vicks VapoRub, as well as certain home-remedies are considered safe, the best thing you can do is give yourself time to rest. “Listening to your body and seeking professional advice when in doubt is key to ensuring a healthy pregnancy,” says Hack.
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Jennifer Jolorte Dolo is a maternity expert, birth doula, certified breastfeeding counselor and clinical nutritionist based in New York City. She also serves as a postpartum chef with A Lite Bite and is the culinary director of the health platform Nouri Mama. She has a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from the Maryland University of Integrative Health.
Stephanie Hack, MD, MPH, is board certified ob-gyn and host of the Lady Parts Doctor podcast. She obtained her medical degree from Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, as well as a masters degree in public health. She completed her residency at Georgetown University Hospital and Washington Hospital Center.
Laura Riley, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician who specializes in high risk pregnancies. She serves as the department chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Weill Cornell Medicine, as well as the obstetrician and gynecologist-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, based in New York City. She received her medical degree and completed her residency at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, Safety of Topical Dermatologic Medications in Pregnancy, July 2016
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