How to cope with Winter Illnesses During Pregnancy?

Colds, gastroenteritis, cough… Expecting mothers are more susceptible to seasonal ailments.^1-2 Homeopathy can help relieve symptoms of many ailments while respecting the health of both mother and baby.³

Winter Illnesses During Pregnancy

More vulnerable than usual, pregnant women often apprehend winter and its common ailments, such as colds, gastroenteritis, sore throats, and other seasonal pleasures. But how do you take care of yourself when most treatments are off-limits for nine months? Here are a few expert tips from gynecologist-obstetrician Dr. Christelle Besnard-Charvet.

Relief Is Possible

During pregnancy, a mother-to-be’s medicine cabinet must be used with caution. As a general rule, taking medication should be avoided during pregnancy.

Homeopathy offers an effective and safe solution that respects the health for both mother and baby. Free of chemical toxicity, homeopathic medicines typically have no contraindications and are unlikely to cause side effects. Homeopathy is well suited for treating winter ailments such as colds, gastroenteritis, or sore throats.

The Golden Rule: Consult

Pregnant women are more susceptible to infections, which can affect their baby. At the first signs of illness, homeopathy can quickly provide relief. Dr. Besnard-Charvet emphasizes the importance of consulting a health care professional in homeopathy:
“I do not recommend self-medication for pregnant women. With proper guidance, they can take appropriate medicines that will help alleviate symptoms more quickly without any impact on the baby’s health.”

Homeopathic First Aid Kit

Winter is notorious for gastroenteritis outbreaks that disrupt daily life. Dr. Besnard-Charvet explains: “In case of an epidemic and at the first symptoms, I recommend various homeopathic treatments to ease diarrhea, food poisoning, and reduce fatigue caused by dehydration. If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, a consultation is necessary, as indigestion in late pregnancy could indicate gallbladder issues.”

Homeopathy for Prevention

When recommended by a professional homeopath, homeopathy can play a key role in preventing winter illnesses through long-term treatments. From October to March, Dr. Besnard-Charvet advises to follow a homeopathic treatment to prevent flu-like conditions, for example. While homeopathic medicines are not a substitute for the flu vaccine, they help reduce flu symptoms.

A Matter of Common Sense

During an outbreak, it is important to continue ventilating your home, even in cold weather. Regular handwashing and stocking up on tissues are also helpful. I do not hesitate to recommend to my patients to wear a mask when necessary. Most importantly, a pregnant woman should listen to her body. If she feels unwell, she should contact her midwife or health care professional for advice.

Seek advice from a health care professional in homeopathy who will be able to recommend the most suitable treatment.

References:

¹ Risk Factors for Pregnancy Complications – Women’s Health Issues – Merck Manual Consumer Version

² Grippe et grossesse : les précautions essentielles au 1er trimestre

³ L’homéopathie pendant la grossesse : quels bienfaits ?

Regarding the medical expert:

 A Gynecologist, homeopath and women’s health medical expert Dr. Christelle Besnard-Charvet has held a state doctorate in medicine with a specialization in gynecology and obstetrics since 1991. She is a former intern and clinical chief at the hospitals of Lyon. She holds various qualifications, including in homeopathy, nutrition, supportive care, and the proper use of medical cannabis.

She has been the Head of Pathology at Boiron Laboratories since 2006, in the R&D department-ASM at Boiron, France.

Dr. Besnard-Charvet is a member of the SHISSO (Homeopathic Society of Supportive Care) and the SFOI (Francophone Society of Integrative Oncology). She teaches at a homeopathy school and regularly speaks at conferences aimed at gynecologists and/or homeopaths.

She is the author of several works for healthcare professionals on homeopathy in gynecology and a book for the general public titled “Plus fort contre le cancer” (“Stronger Against Cancer”).

Dernière révision et adaptation : Boiron Canada – 2025-02-26