Pregnancy and medication
Anything you eat in pregnancy passes to your baby via the placenta, and for that reason some medications aren’t considered safe.
If you’re planning on becoming pregnant, speak to your primary care physician about what you should avoid. This is especially important if you take regular medication for a chronic health condition. If he knows there is a possibility you might become pregnant he may want to adjust your dose or prescribe an alternative.
If you’re newly pregnant, take any and every over-the-counter medication you use to your OB-GYN or nurse-midwife and ask for her advice. It’s likely she’ll put your mind at rest. As far as OTC medication goes, here’s a roundup of what you can and can’t take…
For colds…
Avoid decongestants if you have a cold and are suffering from a stuffy nose – they contain ephedrine, which may affect your blood pressure. And if you’re thinking of steam inhalation with menthol oils, keep in mind that some aromatherapists say you should avoid essential oils, period, before the four-month mark; while others say that some are safe. Use plain hot water instead. Raising yourself up slightly at night may relieve congestion Make sure you are slightly raised at night, with more pillows than normal to support you. Longing for a soothing hot lemon drink to ease your sore throat? Check with the pharmacist first as some contain phenylephrine, which can also affect the blood pressure during pregnancy.
For hay fever…
Most hay fever medicines aren’t recommended for use in pregnancy. Check with your caregiver or pharmacist and think about an alternate treatment, such as homeopathy, which is safe and natural. See our section on natural remedies in pregnancy for further information.
For acne and pimples…
Most OTC treatments for skin conditions such as acne are safe for use in pregnancy. However, antibiotic preparations including clindamycin, tetracycline, isotretinoin and erythromycin, are unsuitable. Consult your caregiver immediately about these medications if you’re using them. See our feature on health and beauty for more help.
For constipation
Some laxatives are safe in pregnancy but as a rule it’s better to try to tackle constipation naturally, by increasing your fiber intake via fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains, drinking plenty of water and sipping prune juice. See constipation and diet for more information.
For heartburn…
Some OTC indigestion remedies are high in sodium so check with your caregiver before taking any. Eating smaller meals more frequently, avoiding spicy foods and propping yourself up on pillows in bed at night can help combat heartburn. See heartburn and diet for more tips.
For headaches…
As a rule acetaminophen is considered safe in pregnancy but don’t take more than the recommended dose and if you’re taking any other medication check to ensure it doesn’t also contain acetaminophen as you could overdose. Avoid taking ibuprofen as it can damage your unborn baby’s heart.
For personal problems…
Problems ‘down below’ are uncomfortably common in pregnancy. If you think you have a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection get it checked out by your caregiver to make sure. Natural remedies for yeast infections include natural live yogurt on a sanitary pad, taking an acidophilus supplement and avoiding tight clothing. You’ll be able to use an anti-fungal suppository and cream, but you won’t be able to take oral medication while you’re pregnant. If you have a UTI, drink plenty of water to flush out your system and contact your caregiver.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.