Treating an Ear Infection During Pregnancy

You anticipated many remarkable changes with pregnancy, yet some surprises may still catch you off guard. One example: being pregnant can raise your likelihood of developing an ear infection.

Ear infections in pregnancy can occur for a variety of reasons. They’re typically fairly minor and respond well to treatment.

Still, contact your clinician if you suspect any infection while pregnant. If left untreated, an ear infection can be dangerous for your health and your developing baby — and in uncommon situations might lead to complications.

Are ear problems frequent in pregnancy?

Most ear issues during pregnancy are temporary and mild. That said, they can range from commonplace conditions to rare disorders.

One frequently seen ear infection in pregnancy is swimmer’s ear. This affects the outer ear canal and often follows swimming in contaminated water or accidentally irritating the inside of the ear.

A much less common, short-lived ear problem during pregnancy is sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). It isn’t an infection, and researchers aren’t sure why some people experience this uncommon condition while pregnant. It generally appears in the second or third trimester and typically resolves within about 10 days.

Report any ear pain or hearing changes to your provider immediately.

Why ear infections may happen during pregnancy

Infections overall are more likely when you’re pregnant. Changes to the ears, nose, and throat during pregnancy can specifically increase the risk of ear infections. An ear infection may stem from bacterial or viral causes.

Pregnancy-related changes that might contribute include:

• Elevated basal metabolic rate (BMR). Pregnancy increases oxygen demand and blood volume. Your heart works harder to circulate these extra fluids. Fluid accumulation in the ear can cause ear discomfort — though not always an infection.
• Hormonal shifts. Rising estrogen and progesterone influence immune function, potentially making you more vulnerable to bacterial and viral illnesses. The precise connection between hormones and infection risk remains not fully understood.
• Greater fluid retention. Increased circulation leads to more fluid held in the body. This can cause symptoms like nasal congestion. Extra fluid in the nose and sinuses during pregnancy may raise the chance of an ear infection.

Pregnancy-related changes can also cause other temporary ear disturbances such as vertigo or lightheadedness. If you have a preexisting condition like Meniere’s disease, your hearing and balance may be affected during pregnancy.

During allergy, cold, or flu season, the risk of ear and related infections rises for everyone.

An infection or damage to the inner ear can sometimes result in:

• vertigo
• hearing impairment
• tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Signs of ear infections in pregnancy

Common symptoms of an ear infection include:

• burning, sharp, or dull pain — especially when pressing on the outer ear
• swelling, redness, or inflammation of the ear canal
• itching in and around the ear
• reduced hearing
• tinnitus, or ringing in the ear
• headache
• yellow or green discharge from the ear

Home treatments for ear infections while pregnant

Any infection can be risky if ignored. Seek medical attention right away if you suspect an ear infection. Untreated infections can harm the inner ear and lead to hearing loss.

Home approaches may ease symptoms alongside prescribed medicines — or when a clinician determines medical treatment isn’t necessary. Home remedies for ear discomfort include:

• ear drops made from equal parts rubbing alcohol and vinegar (avoid this if you have other ear damage or issues)
• a warm compress, such as a gently warmed towel or water bottle
• herbal ear drops (discuss with your OB before using during pregnancy)

When to consult your provider

Attend regular prenatal visits and tell your clinician right away if you think you have an ear infection.

Not every earache signals an infection — but it’s safer to get it evaluated. An untreated infection can spread and impair your hearing.

Inform your provider about other ear symptoms, like tinnitus. Systemic issues such as high blood pressure or iron-deficiency anemia can also produce ear-related symptoms including ringing.

In some situations your clinician may refer you to an otolaryngologist (ENT), a specialist in ear, nose, and throat disorders.

Medical care for ear infections during pregnancy

Check with your clinician before using over-the-counter pain relievers. Acetaminophen is generally considered safe during pregnancy, while aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen should be avoided.

Serious bacterial ear infections are often treated with antibiotics. During pregnancy, many antibiotics aren’t appropriate, so your provider will choose the safest option.

Your healthcare professional will inspect your ear canal for inflammation and may extract fluid for testing.

For significant bacterial ear infections, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic ear drops to use for up to two weeks. Other pregnancy-safe therapies can include ear irrigations and topical ointments.

Could an ear infection harm you or your baby?

Any infection has the potential to be harmful to you and, indirectly, to your baby.

If untreated, a severe ear infection could spread to the brain or other body areas. For a serious infection, your provider might recommend an antibiotic considered safer during pregnancy.

How to reduce the risk of ear infections in pregnancy

You can’t completely prevent every infection, but you can lower your risk of ear infections during pregnancy by doing the following:

• Don’t probe your inner ear, especially with cotton swabs.
• Use a soft flannel to clean the outer ear and inner rim.
• Wear a swim cap or keep your head above water when swimming.
• If water enters your ears, try to gently remove it with a clean, soft cloth.

Bottom line

The many physiological changes of pregnancy can increase vulnerability to certain infections, including those of the ear.

Most ear infections during pregnancy are mild, but it’s important to seek medical care for any ear-related symptoms.

Left untreated, a severe infection can cause permanent damage and affect hearing.

Not all painkillers and antibiotics are safe during pregnancy; your clinician can recommend the safest treatments for you.