Pregnancy and medication

There are certain medications that are best avoided during pregnancy, some that are considered safe and others on which there’s no research available and may be administered at your doctor’s discretion.

Play it safe all through your pregnancy and check with your OB-GYN, nurse-midwife or pharmacist before taking any kind of medication, whether conventional or complementary.

Any medication you do take is likely to cross the placenta and reach your baby, so even if you get the all-clear from your caregiver think long and hard about whether you really need it or could cope without it…

For coughs and colds

Avoid decongestants if you have a cold in pregnancy – may contain ephedrine, which can raise blood pressure. You can ease a stuffy nose with steam inhalation, but if you’re in the habit of adding a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to your steamer hold fast – many aromatherapists don’t recommend you use it in the first four months, so stick to plain water. Check natural remedies in pregnancy for further advice. Propping yourself up on pillows at night may help avert that tickle in your throat that heralds a coughing fit. Acetaminophen can ease the aches and pains that accompany colds but check with your caregiver before taking it.

For hay fever

Most hay fever medication isn’t recommended for use in pregnancy, so ask your caregiver or pharmacist for advice. It might be worth considering complementary therapy such as homeopathy, which is safe and natural.

For pimples

Many women find their skin becomes oily in pregnancy and they may get pimples for the first time since their teens. Most over-the-counter creams and lotions for pimples and acne are safe for use in pregnancy – however, some prescription acne treatments aren’t. They include clindamycin, tetracycline, isotretinoin and erythromycin. If you were prescribed any of these medications to treat acnes before you became pregnant, don’t be tempted to use them if you get an outbreak.

For constipation

This is common in pregnancy, as hormones cause your digestive system to work less efficiently. If you need to take an iron supplement to combat anemia this can exacerbate constipation. Some laxatives are safe to take in pregnancy – your caregiver can advise you. As a rule, though, it’s better to try and tackle the problem by increasing your fiber intake (find this in fruit and vegetables and whole grains) and drinking plenty of water to bulk up your stools and make them easier to pass. See our section on constipation and diet for more information.

Indigestion and heartburn

Many indigestion and heartburn remedies are high in sodium, so check with your caregiver before taking anything. Try to combat these pregnancy niggles by eating smaller meals more often and avoiding spicy or fatty foods that are harder to digest. For more information on how the right foods can help, see heartburn in pregnancy.

Yeast infections

Even if you’re familiar with the symptoms of a yeast infection, always get it checked out by your caregiver in case you have another type of infection. If you do have a yeast infection you can use over-the-counter creams and suppositories, but oral medication isn’t suitable in pregnancy. Eating live natural yogurt and avoiding scented soaps, bubble baths and shower gels can help prevent yeast infections.

Urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are also common in pregnancy and you may be prescribed antibiotics to treat them. There are steps you can take to prevent them – cranberry juice contains a natural antibiotic that’s thought to combat the bacteria that causes UTIs; cutting your sugar intake and not waiting too long to urinate when you have the urge may also help.

Medication for chronic health problems

If you take medication for a chronic health problem such as hypertension, thyroid problems, epilepsy or diabetes, it’s essential that you consult your physician prior to conceiving or as soon as you discover that you’re pregnant. Your medication may need to be changed or the dosage modified to accommodate your change in circumstances.

Finally, if you’re in doubt, and for any new type of medication you require, ensure that you get clear advice on why it’s necessary from your caregiver or pharmacist.

Why not chat to other moms about this, or other topics, by leaving a message on our chat forum.

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.

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Last Modified: 27/06/2008

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