Neti Pot for Congestion While Pregnant

So, I've had sinus infections off and on this whole winter and it has not been fun. I've not been able to work out as consistently as I would've liked to and have in general felt like crap about 1/4 of every month starting in November. My midwife said that they have seen a lot more sinus infections and allergy problems this year, most likely due to it being so cold and the pollution is not able to dissipate as well. Yay. She recommended that I get a Neti Pot. I was not enthused, putting water up my nose generally seems like a bad idea. I know that monks have been doing it for thousands of years, but I don't like getting water in my nose in a pool or lake (not to mention ocean) so why do it on purpose?

So, Jim finally bought one for me. I, of course, made him try it first (and show me video). I should also mention that my mom's doctor had her get one as well. Go figure, she was trying this before me (she's using a bottle)! Anyway, I tried it and I have to say I am hooked. I make sure I do it at least twice a day. The first week was interesting because I could not get the water to go through on one side sometimes, and when it did the water would come out in drips. Guess my sinuses really needed some cleaning.

I thought this website was very informative regarding the use of the Neti Pot: www.jalanetipot.com

I have to say I wish I had used this when I was pregnant with Eva because I was ALWAYS congested. This time around I've just been congested when I've had sinus infections (which has seemed like the whole time). But, anyway I think this would help women with congestion issues when pregnant.

I've found the amount of salt and how warm the water is really can affect how it "feels". I prefer not so warm water and a little less salt then recommended. With our Neti Pot the instructions it said to use a 1/2 teaspoon of salt and I use just under that. Trying to get the water temp "just right" is a little harder for me, but it's never too bad.

Anyway, I have never been able to breathe so clearly as I have since using this little ceramic pot. I use it twice a day right now. Probably will go down to once a day in the summer when I don't usually have problems. However, I have been very congested this week and felt like a sinus infection was trying to take hold. But, it hasn't gotten too bad. So, the Neti Pot is definitely helping.

So, I guess what I'm saying is if you are preggers and congested really consider giving this a shot!