Reviewed by Dana B. Jacoby, MD, FACOG
Obstetrician and Gynecologist
Tinton Falls, NJ
Ailments don't stop when you're pregnant or breastfeeding. In fact, you may get more of them. But, your treatment options become more limited and may seem more confusing.
If you are pregnant (or trying to get pregnant) or are nursing, you should follow the basic guidelines for using medications safely, plus some additional precautions. And always talk with your health care provider before taking any medications while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Here are some general guidelines from HealthyWomen and the medical advisory board at HealthyMama:
| WHAT MEDICATIONS ARE SAFE WHEN YOU'RE PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING? |
| What's Bothering You? | What IS Recommended | What is NOT Recommended | Ask Your Health Care Provider |
| Aches and Pains | Acetaminophen |
Aspirin
Ibuprofen Naproxen sodium | |
| Sleeplessness With Aches and Pains | Diphenhydramine hcl |
Aspirin
Ibuprofen Naproxen sodium Melatonin Diphenhydramine/ ibuprofen (Advil PM, Motrin PM) Alprazolam (Xanax) | |
| Headache | Acetaminophen |
Aspirin
Ibuprofen Naproxen sodium | |
| Breast Tenderness | Acetaminophen |
Aspirin
Ibuprofen Naproxen sodium | |
| Fever | Acetaminophen |
Aspirin
Ibuprofen Naproxen sodium | |
| Colds (fever, cough, congestion) |
Ibuprofen
Alcohol | Products containing antihistamines and acetaminophen (such as Tylenol Cold) | |
| Constipation | Docusate sodium | Senna (Peri-Colace); avoid during pregnancy and discuss with health care provider if breastfeeding |
Laxatives, under the supervision of your health care provider to avoid severe uterine contractions
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax); only use under health care provider's supervision |
| Heartburn and Indigestion | Calcium carbonate | Some medications that are not generally recommended may be permitted with your health care provider's supervision | |
| Nausea |
Ginger
Hydration Protein Motion sickness band B6 vitamins | ||
| Lack of Energy |
B6 vitamins
Protein |
Too much caffeine (moderate consumption of less than 200 mg per day is generally considered safe)
Too much sugar | |
| Hemorrhoids |
Hemorrhoid wipes or creams
Eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of fluids to help avoid constipation | ||
| Gingivitis |
Floss teeth
Mouthwash | ||
| Stuffy Nose |
Nasal spray
Guaifenesin Dextromethorphan | Phenylephrine | Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed); this can raise heart rate, so medical supervision is needed |
| Gas | Simethicone |
