Can You Use Vicks Vaporub While Pregnant?
While expecting mothers often face a multitude of questions and concerns, can they safely use popular products such as Vicks Vaporub while pregnant? As far as the scientific research goes, it’s still inconclusive.
However, with all of the potential risks and side effects that come along with being pregnant, it’s best to err on the side of caution and go for natural methods for treating colds and coughs if you are looking for something with benefits beyond just the placebo effect.
Can You Use Vicks Vaporub While Pregnant?
It mainly depends on the product you’re using. The good news is that it’s safe to use Vicks Vaporub during pregnancy. If you’re feeling congested, Vicks VapoRub provides an easy and effective way to get some relief.
Directly apply it to your chest, throat, or back, or blend it into hot water to inhale the vapor – that’s because its active ingredients of camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol safely aid in clearing your sinuses without posing any risk. Just be sure not to ingest the rub as it’s not a good idea even when you’re not pregnant.
Active Ingredients Found In Vicks
Vicks VapoRub contains a trio of active ingredients that work together to produce an aromatic blend of camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. Its smell is reminiscent of mint and has a uniquely pleasing feel when applied.
When used correctly, its vapors are an effective remedy for relieving congestion and a runny nose, soothing muscle aches, and calming chest congestion and coughing. In addition to the active ingredients, small amounts of cedar leaf oil, nutmeg oil, petrolatum, turpentine oil, and thymol have also been added.
Which Other Vicks Products Can You Use When Pregnant?
If VaporRub isn’t helping with your cold symptoms, pregnant persons can turn to Vicks Inhaler as a safe alternative. This product looks like a lip balm and shares the same active ingredients as Vaporub. Taking in the fumes may help reduce congestion.
For additional relief, Vicks Nasal Saline Spray is a non-medicated, pregnancy-safe spray that can help lessen stuffiness. Of course, prior to using any of these products, it’s important to get clearance from your doctor.
Vick Products To Be Cautious With When Pregnant
Considering the health of your unborn baby, it is recommended to stay away from Vicks Nyquil due to its active ingredient list. If decongestant capsules are necessary, using Vicks Sinex with phenylephrine may be safe for short-term use – but it is best you consult a healthcare professional first.
To reduce risks, you may opt for Tylenol (paracetamol and acetaminophen), which are generally considered safer. Alternatively, Vicks Sinex nasal spray with Oxymetazoline is thought to potentially be safe for short-term usage during pregnancy; however, again, seeking a doctor’s advice beforehand is strongly advised.
Safe Use of Vicks VaporRub During Pregnancy
If you’re looking for relief from chest and lung congestion, try applying Vicks VapoRub lightly to the affected areas. Make sure to cover with a warm, dry cloth to protect the active ingredients from evaporating too quickly.
Wearing loose clothing such as an oversized t-shirt or comfortable pajama top or nightgown will help to ensure the vapors reach your nose and help clear your stuffy sinuses. To make use of this extra benefit, you can also apply a small amount of Vicks to a clean handkerchief or dishcloth and gently breathe it in through your nose. If you’re after a more extreme remedy, investing in a vaporizer specifically designed for Vicks is surely the way to go; it will moisten and soon clear up any blocked sinuses.
Is camphor in Vicks Safe During Pregnancy?
For expecting mothers seeking reassurance, it’s important to note that a small study involving 170 pregnant women who had used oil of camphor (an ingredient in Vicks VapoRub) during their first trimester showed no connection to an elevated risk of birth defects. While there are no specific studies yet on the safety of these products, this is reassuring information.