| Symptom | Pregnancy Rhinitis | Common Cold | Allergies | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Yes (often worse at night) | Yes | Yes | | Runny nose | Clear, thin mucus | Thick, yellow/green later | Clear, watery | | Sneezing | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Fever | No | Sometimes | No | | Sore throat | No (except from mouth breathing) | Often | No | | Itchy eyes/nose | No | No | Yes | | Duration | 6+ weeks (often entire pregnancy) | 7-10 days | As long as exposed to allergen |

Up to 30% of pregnant women experience nasal congestion without any underlying infection or allergy. The good news? It’s usually harmless. The frustrating news? It can last for weeks or even until delivery.

If you’re pregnant and feel like you can’t breathe through your nose—especially at night—you’re not alone. While you might assume you have a cold or allergies, there’s a very common condition called pregnancy rhinitis .

And remember the silver lining: For the vast majority, pregnancy rhinitis disappears within 24-48 hours after giving birth. That first full, deep breath through your nose with your newborn in your arms is a wonderful moment to look forward to. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your prenatal care provider about any symptoms or treatments during pregnancy.