Discomfort during Pregnancy is experienced often by the expectant mothers and as this discomfort turns and progresses to pain, they look for safe medications. Safe painkiller is the choice but as with everything else during that time, diligence is important. Moreover, it is must to discuss all medications that one takes, including over-the-counter drugs with her OB-GYN.According to research, taking painkillers during pregnancy could affect the fertility of the unborn child in later life.Pain medications (analgesics), can be obtained either over-the-counter or prescription. These prescription-strength painkillers are generally more potent than OTCs, but they also lead to more potential dangers to the developing foetus. OTC medications, however, are not risk-free. Certain OTC prescription painkillers increase the chances of birth defects or complications during labor pain and delivery. Some medications to be considered:
- During pregnancy, Acetaminophen, is active ingredient in Tylenol which is considered safe. It is used primarily forfever, aches, headaches.Also, it can be used throughout three trimesters of pregnancy.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) consists aspirin, also, Advil or Motrin and Aleve.
- Aspirin, contains salicylic acid as active ingredient, should not be taken because it can create problems for both the mother and the foetus. And if it is taken a day or so before delivery, it can lead to heavy bleeding during labor. Aspirin may be prescribed for women who are having certain other medical problems, such as preeclampsia. It decreases the risk of deadly blood clots in them.
- Some safer NSAID options are Ibuprofen and naproxen, however, both of these should be used with caution. They are considered safe during the first 2 trimesters, but they are ill-advised during the last3 months of pregnancy as they can also increase bleeding during delivery.
It is necessary to discuss when one is taking pain medication while pregnant with her OB-GYN. Moreover, one should never take a prescription or OTC pain medication without having first spoken with the physician. Opiates are very potent drugs with adverse and very harmful effects.
But there is no fact suggesting a safe level of narcotic use throughout the time of pregnancy. Risks to the foetus include stillbirth, premature delivery, miscarriage. At the time of birth, the baby is also at high risk of low birth weight,extreme drowsiness and breathing difficulties, which can lead to feeding problems.The more common prescription painkillers to take while pregnantare illegal to use without a physician’s authorization. Painkillers of this strength are mainly used for intense pain resulting from surgery, dental work, injuries, or migraine headaches.These prescription analgesics are available in many different forms and brands, including codeine, OxyContin, Percocet, Demerol, Duragesic, and Vicodin. Physicians allow the use of these drugs in pregnant patients when the benefits of the drug outweigh the potential risks.
So, after consulting the doctor about taking precautions and proper medications for the discomfort during the pregnancy can only prevent the occurring of problems in the health of mother and the foetus. Have a safe and healthy delivery!
Content Provided By Vanguard Behavioral Health – rehab Tucson
