Pregnancy consists of different phases, each requiring specific care. Proper prenatal care improves conditions and helps maintain the health of both the mother and the baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, it is essential to discuss any medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, with your doctor or midwife.
According to the Saed News Family Magazine, pregnancy involves various stages, each demanding particular precautions. Prenatal care enhances overall well-being and contributes to the health of both the mother and child. During this period, you may need to take certain medications or avoid some drugs, foods, and activities. Pregnancy-related complications, such as high blood pressure disorders, gestational diabetes, iron-deficiency anemia, and severe nausea and vomiting, may also arise. To manage these conditions, self-medicating is strongly discouraged during pregnancy. It is crucial to identify which medications are safe and always consult your doctor before use. Some drugs that are safe in the first trimester may become dangerous later in pregnancy.
When Should Medications Be Avoided During Pregnancy?
Doctors generally advise pregnant women to avoid taking medications during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. This is because the first three months of pregnancy are when the baby’s organs begin to develop. However, in some cases, medication is necessary for managing conditions like high blood pressure or asthma.
Determining whether a medication is safe for you and your baby can be challenging. Some drugs have been used for years during pregnancy without harmful effects and are deemed safe by doctors. However, other medications have not been studied extensively due to potential risks to the baby. For this reason, it is essential to consult your doctor or midwife before taking any medication.
Which Medications Are Safe to Take During Pregnancy?
The following medications are generally considered safe during pregnancy:
Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) for fever and pain relief
Penicillin and some other antibiotics
HIV medications
Certain allergy medications, including Loratadine (e.g., Alavert, Claritin) and Diphenhydramine (e.g., Benadryl)
Some medications for high blood pressure
Most asthma medications
Certain antidepressants
Which Medications Should Be Avoided During Pregnancy?
Certain medications can increase the risk of birth defects or other complications. However, in some cases, stopping a medication (such as one used to control seizures) can pose a greater risk to the mother and baby than continuing it. In general, pregnant women should avoid the following medications unless prescribed by a doctor:
Aspirin (unless specifically prescribed)
Ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin, Advil)
Isotretinoin (formerly sold as Accutane, now under brand names such as Absorica, Amnesteem, Claravis, Myorisan, Zenatane) for acne
Thalidomide (Thalomid), used for certain skin conditions and multiple myeloma
Are Herbal Supplements and Vitamins Safe?
It is best to avoid taking any vitamins, herbal supplements, or other dietary supplements without a doctor’s approval during pregnancy.
Women who are planning to conceive or are already pregnant should take a prenatal multivitamin containing folic acid. Folic acid supplementation is especially important before and during the early weeks of pregnancy as it helps prevent certain birth defects. Speak with your doctor or midwife about the best prenatal vitamins for you. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend additional iron or folic acid supplementation.
