Nosebleeds and bleeding gums in pregnancy

A surprise nosebleed, or a bit of pink in the sink when you brush your teeth, can be alarming the first time — but both are common and harmless parts of pregnancy. They happen for the same underlying reason: pregnancy dramatically increases your blood volume and blood flow, and pregnancy hormones make the delicate blood vessels in your nose and gums swell and become more fragile, so they bleed more easily.

Nosebleeds and a stuffy nose. Many people find their nose feels blocked or congested in pregnancy (sometimes called pregnancy rhinitis), even without a cold, and nosebleeds can come with it. To help, keep the air around you from getting too dry (a humidifier can help), stay well hydrated, blow your nose gently, and dab a little petroleum jelly inside your nostrils to stop them drying out. If you do get a nosebleed, sit up, lean slightly forward (not back, so blood doesn’t run down your throat), and pinch the soft part of your nose just below the bridge for about 10 minutes, breathing through your mouth.

Bleeding gums. Swollen, tender gums that bleed when you brush or floss are very common — this is sometimes called pregnancy gingivitis. Looking after your teeth and gums genuinely matters in pregnancy, both for your comfort and because good oral health is linked to a healthier pregnancy. Brush gently twice a day with a soft toothbrush, floss carefully, and don’t stop cleaning your teeth just because your gums bleed — gentle, consistent care actually helps. It’s a great idea to see a dentist during pregnancy; dental care is safe (just let them know you’re pregnant), and many Australian dentists bulk-bill or have concession options.

Both of these are usually nothing to worry about, and they settle after birth as your hormones and blood flow return to normal. But it’s worth getting checked in a few situations. See your GP if a nosebleed is heavy, frequent, or won’t stop after 20 minutes of pressure, or if you feel dizzy or unwell with it. For your gums, see a dentist if they’re very swollen, painful, or you notice a lump on the gum. And more generally, mention it to your midwife or GP if you seem to be bruising or bleeding very easily elsewhere, just to be sure everything’s fine.

It’s worth booking that dental check-up if you haven’t had one recently, because pregnancy is genuinely a good time to look after your teeth — and getting on top of any gum inflammation now makes it more comfortable throughout. Between visits, a soft brush, gentle daily flossing and an alcohol-free mouthwash keep things in good shape. For your nose, a saline spray or a humidifier at night can ease the congestion that so often comes with the bleeding, especially in the drier months.

For the everyday pink-in-the-sink and the occasional nosebleed, though, be reassured they’re simply your body’s extra blood flow at work. Be gentle with your nose and gums, keep up your dental care, and know it all eases once your baby arrives.