Medication and pregnancy

Of course, it’s best not to take any medication during pregnancy. If you do develop a health problem, you should always start with a natural remedy/non-pharmaceutical solution. If you suffer from nausea and vomiting, for example, space out your meals, eat plain foods like rice and pasta and avoid strong smells.

 

Sometimes, however, medication is necessary because lack of treatment could put both mother and child at risk. The best thing to do is speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any kind of medication.

Our advice:
> Avoid taking any medicine, including any that you think is as harmless such as Ibuprofen. Nevertheless, don’t panic if you have taken some.

> Speak to your doctor if you have a fever or feel ill.

> Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should not be taken at all during the last four months of pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by your doctor. Even analgesic gels contain NSAIDs. Read the instructions and ingredients carefully.

> Remember that paracetamol can be bought over the counter and can be used for occasional use when needed during pregnancy.

> If you are already taking medication for a chronic illness (such as asthma or diabetes), don’t stop taking it until you have sought medical advice. Continue taking your medication and your doctor will let you know what to do during your pregnancy.

Colds
Many cold remedies contain decongestants such as phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine that cause the blood vessels to shrink (vasoconstriction) and are not suitable for pregnant women. Nasal products containing ephedrine or phenylephrine should be used for a short time only, and make sure you don’t take more than the stated dose. Sprays containing the antihistamine azelastine should be avoided.
Advice: Take paracetamol, blow your nose regularly and use saline nose drops to clear your nasal passage.

Coughs
A cough can be particularly irritating, especially during the last few weeks of pregnancy. Cough medicines with opium-derived drugs (such as codeine or dextromethorphan) can be taken as long as you stick to the recommended doses. However, their use is not recommended a few days before delivery because there is a risk that they could have a sedative effect on the baby. You should avoid medication that combines several active ingredients.

Constipation
Start by following a few simple diet rules: eat little and often (drink plenty, eat high-fibre foods such as bran loaf, etc.) and avoid standing or sitting for too long. Gentle daily exercise may help by stimulating the digestive system into working that bit harder.
There are some mild laxatives available that are safe for pregnant women to use. Do consult your GP for further advice.