What to do about a sore throat during pregnancy

Jun 30, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the throat refers to the pharynx. Sore throat during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, excessive voice use, the common cold, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or other factors. In daily life, using a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity can help prevent excessively dry air. Additionally, avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods, and consume more bland foods rich in vitamins.

Generally speaking, the term "throat" refers to the pharynx. Sore throat during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, excessive voice use, common cold, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the guidance of a physician regarding general treatments, medications, and other therapeutic approaches. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

During pregnancy, changes in hormone levels can accelerate bodily metabolism, potentially leading to swelling and increased sensitivity of throat tissues, resulting in a sore throat. It is recommended to maintain a bland diet, avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods, and consume more heat-clearing and fire-reducing foods such as bitter melon, mung bean soup, and pears.

2. Excessive Voice Use

If excessive or loud talking occurs during pregnancy, it may lead to congestion and swelling of the pharyngeal mucosa, resulting in pain. One should rest more, reduce talking, avoid shouting, and drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist.

3. Common Cold

Colds are usually caused by bacterial infections. During pregnancy, due to decreased immunity, pregnant women are more susceptible to external pathogens. Pathogens invading the throat area can cause mucosal congestion and swelling, resulting in pain. Symptoms may also include fever and cough. Patients should use medications such as Cefixime Tablets, Lanqin Oral Liquid, and Amoxicillin Capsules under medical supervision.

4. Acute Pharyngitis

Acute pharyngitis may be caused by viral infections. Inflammatory exudates can irritate the nerve endings in the throat, causing pain. Additionally, swallowing movements can further rub and irritate the already damaged mucosa, worsening the pain. Symptoms may also include nasal congestion and runny nose. Patients may use medications such as Paracetamol Tablets, Honeysuckle Granules, and Cefalexin Granules under a physician's guidance.

5. Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis may be associated with bacterial infections such as streptococcus. Swollen tonsils can exert pressure on surrounding tissues, stimulating sensory nerve endings in the throat and causing throat pain. Symptoms may also include difficulty swallowing and swollen neck lymph nodes. Patients can take medications such as Roxithromycin Capsules, Golden Lotus Granules, and Pudilan Xiaoyan Tablets under medical advice to alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, using a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity can help prevent overly dry air. Additionally, avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods, and consume more light, vitamin-rich foods.

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