For example, a number of brand name products carry numerous formulations (cough and cold, fever and congestion) and each contains multiple and often different active ingredients, she explained.

“When you are pregnant or nursing, using the least amount of medication to control your symptoms is really important,” Ms Voyer Lavigne added. “Reading labels is critical to get the right ingredients to treat your specific symptoms and to avoid products that may contain harmful agents.”

As a result of the potential for harm, Ms Voyer Lavigne has compiled some helpful advice for moms and moms-to-be battling colds this holiday season.

Top Five Cold Remedy Tips During Pregnancy:

1. Less is More. Remember that “less is more.” Take only those medications that are needed for your specific symptoms. Many cold remedies have three­ to six ingredients, some of which you (and your developing baby) do not need. If your major complaint is a cough, for example, then avoid a combination drug that includes a nasal decongestant, an extra medication you can do without.

2. Oral Decongestion Alternatives. While the majority of studies looking at oral decongestants during pregnancy are reassuring with first trimester use, it is still best to avoid them in the first trimester due to a possible very low risk for vascular issues in the fetus. Pregnant women could consider saline drops or a short-term nasal spray decongestant alternative.

3. Herbal Ingredient Warning. Watch out for herbal ingredients in many over-the-counter medications. Chances are they have not been studied in pregnancy. CPEIS recommends avoiding any product containing herbal ingredients.

4. Throat Lozenges & Vitamin Overload. Throat lozenges contain mostly sugar; however, some may contain other ingredients such as zinc or vitamin C. When taking vitamin C, the recommended daily allowance in pregnancy is 80–85 mg per day and zinc is only 11–12 mg per day. Remember that since most women take a prenatal vitamin, you will also need to consider the combined dose you will be getting. Taking excessive amounts of vitamins is not recommended during pregnancy unless your doctor determines you are deficient.

5. Cough Syrups & Alcohol. Some cough syrups contain up to ten percent alcohol. Get alcohol-free cough syrup. Your developing baby does not need the alcohol exposure in addition to the other medications.

In Connecticut, questions women or health care providers have about specific cold medications and other exposures in pregnancy or breastfeeding can be directed to CPEIS counselors at 800-325-5391 or 860-523-6419.