What safe treatments can I use for a wet cough with a lot of phlegm while I am 22 weeks pregnant, and is it safe to continue using steam inhalation and Betadine gargles?
Steam inhalation is perfectly safe and excellent for loosening phlegm; just use plain water. However, please stop using Betadine (povidone-iodine) gargles, as iodine can be absorbed and affect your baby's developing thyroid. A warm saltwater gargle is a much safer, highly effective alternative. To help soothe your cough, stay well-hydrated with warm fluids like water with honey and lemon. Please consult your OB/GYN before taking any over-the-counter cough syrups to ensure they are safe for your specific pregnancy.
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What safe treatments can I use for a wet cough with a lot of phlegm while I am 22 weeks pregnant, and is it safe to continue using steam inhalation and Betadine gargles?