At some time during the nine months, you may become ill. You may be scared to take medications, as they can affect the baby. It’s important to understand that all medications taken during pregnancy pass to the baby. Some can be harmful and pose unnecessary risks to the baby. Others are considered safe for use in pregnancy. Before taking any medication, check with your doctor or midwife.
The best thing to do for many minor illnesses is to try other remedies before resorting to medications. Get extra rest, go to bed earlier and take naps during the day. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water to help you feel better. A cool mist vaporizer near your bed can relieve congestion without medications.
Sometimes medicine will be necessary during pregnancy. These should always be prescribed by your OB, who is knowledgeable about which medications can be taken in pregnancy and which are unsafe. If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, be sure to take it as directed. Always finish all the medication, even if you feel better. Sometimes you will feel better in the first few days, but if you stop taking the medication, you could relapse.
Some over the counter medications are unsafe for use during pregnancy. The FDA and the March of Dimes have identified some over the counter medications as safe for pregnancy. However, you should always check with your doctor. Each pregnancy is different and each person reacts to these medications differently. Since your health care provider knows your history best, he or she is the best person to determine which are safe in your situation. Never take any medication without your doctor’s approval.
Heartburn: Maalox or tums are considered safe. Tums with calcium gives you an important nutrient at the same time. Never take Pepto Bismol, which is considered unsafe.
Cold: Sudafed or Chlor Trimeton are considered safe for most pregnant women. Call your doctor before taking these. If you have high blood pressure, these may not be safe for you.
Cough: plain Robitussin is considered safe. If the cough persists, or you can’t get relief even with medication, call your doctor. This could be the sign of something more serious, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
Headache or Fever: Tylenol contains acetaminophen, which is considered safe. Don’t take aspirin or ibuprofen. These can be dangerous to your baby. Excessive Tylenol can also be dangerous to you and your baby. Take only as directed and contact your doctor if your symptoms persist.
Constipation: This can be caused by prenatal vitamins or iron supplements. Try drinking more water and increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables. If this doesn’t work, call your doctor. Colace, Milk of Magnesia or Metamucil are generally considered safe.