Pregnancy-associated rhinitis

Previous studies overestimated the incidence of pregnancy-associated rhinitis because it is a poorly defined clinical condition. The objective of this study was to assess the incidence of this unique type of rhinitis using up-to-date strict criteria. This prospective study included 109 primigravida parturients who were interviewed using a structured questionnaire and underwent detailed rhinoscopy. Pregnancy-associated rhinitis was defined as nasal obstruction symptom and rhinorrhea appearing during pregnancy, lasting for at least 2 months, and disappearing postpartum. The incidence of rhinitis associated with pregnancy at the time of delivery was 9%. No correlation was found between symptoms and signs. Pregnancy-associated rhinitis is an infrequent clinical entity. It may be related to hormonal changes and possibly altered sensation of nasal airflow.