It is critical to distinguish between simple pregnancy rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, and bacterial sinusitis to determine the appropriate treatment course.
Rising levels of these hormones increase blood volume (up to 40% in some cases) and cause the blood vessels in the nasal lining to swell.
Sinus congestion is an inconvenient, but usually harmless, side effect of the hormonal symphony happening inside your body. The good news is that unlike a cold, pregnancy rhinitis will not resolve in a week—but it will resolve after delivery. Until then, focus on safe, drug-free moisture therapies and keep an open line of communication with your doctor. You are breathing for two, so give yourself permission to take the extra steps needed to find comfort.