How to cough during pregnancy?

Question

I've developed a cough and it feels so uncomfortable, especially now. Is there a specific way one should cough during pregnancy to avoid straining or any discomfort?

Damini Bhatia · Answer

When I had a cough, I couldn't even have sweet cough drops because of gestational diabetes. I just held a pillow to my tummy and drank warm unsweetened lemon water.

Hemali Joshi · Answer

Haha I used to hold my belly like it would fall off every time I sneezed or coughed! Just press a pillow against your tummy, it helps.

Arpitha Singhal · Answer

Oh God, coughing with twins was like a full-body workout! I had to cross my legs and hold my belly tight, otherwise I felt I would pee myself.

Gauri Khanna · Answer

I used to panic thinking my baby is getting shaken up inside when I coughed badly. But honestly, the baby is totally safe inside the amniotic sac, just support your lower back when you cough.

Sampada Goyal · Answer

Try to sit straight and slightly lean forward while holding your stomach. When your doctor allows mild yoga, it really helps build core strength so coughing doesn't hurt.

Avanee Rana · Answer

Since I had a C-section later, I know the pain of coughing. Even during late pregnancy, holding a cushion flat against your stomach when you cough protects your abdominal wall.

Sunanda Barik · Answer

Just try to bend slightly forward when you cough, it puts less pressure on your pelvic floor. You are stronger than you think, this phase will pass smoothly.

Kamla Gokhale · Answer

Hold a pillow tightly to your tummy when you cough to support your muscles. It prevents that sudden stretching pain. Also, drink warm water throughout the day.

Madhulika Mandal · Answer

I had a bad cough and all I wanted was hot ginger tea and warm soup! Try to hug a soft cushion to your belly when coughing, it really takes off the pressure.

Anshu Patel · Answer

Because of my PCOS journey I was paranoid about everything, even coughing. Supporting your belly with both hands or a pillow is the safest way to avoid pulling a muscle.