Medications during Pregnancy.

You will find that every doctor's office may recommend something different in terms of what is or is not safe to take during your pregnancy. Talking to your personal obstetrician is a good place to start, since your doctor knows your history and whether or not you may have specific concerns or issues.

Taking medications during pregnancy can be a very personal decision. Some women would prefer not to introduce any unnecessary substances into their systems while carrying a baby. However, pregnancy can also be full of physical issues and concerns that may require you to take medication for your own health. Migraines, severe heartburn, swelling, and muscle aches are all very common in pregnancy.

Using caution in your pregnancy is admirable, and making sure you really need a medication before using it is always best. However, there are several over-the-counter medications that most doctors would say are safe to use throughout your pregnancy. Most of these substances have been studied and deemed safe by medical professionals for use with pregnant women.

COLD/ALLERGY - Sudafed (Pseudephedprine) Actifed, Tavist D,
CONGESTION - Chlor-Trimeton, Tylenol Sinus, Claritin
COUGH - Robitussin
SORE THROAT - Sucrets, Cepacol (spray or lozenges)
PAIN/FEVER - Tylenol (regular or extra strength)
LAXATIVE - Senokot, Metamucil, Milk of Magnesia
STOOL SOFTENER - Colace (Docusate Sodium is generic name)
HEARTBURN/GAS - Maalox, Mylanta, Tums, Rolaids, Di-Gel,
Pepcid OTC, Zantac
HEMORRHOIDS - Preparation H, Anusol HC 1%, Tucks Medicated
Pads
DIARRHEA - Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismol
RASHES/BUG BITES - Cortaid, Lanacort (any ½% Hydrocortisone
Cream) Benadryl (cream or tablets), Calamine
Lotion
YEAST INFECTIONS - Monistat, Gyne-Lotrimin (avoid in first
Trimester if possible)
SLEEP - Unisom
SWEETENERS - Nutrasweet, Splenda

There are many studies out there that may argue the safety or danger of anything on this list, and nothing can be 100% safe unless your doctor has approved it. Every woman and every pregnancy is different, so before taking anything please discuss your symptoms and options with your obstetrician.

Most doctors will recommend that pregnant women take a prenatal vitamin in order to be sure that they are getting the right balance of nutrients for their body and baby. Although some women experience nausea with a prenatal, most can manage taking it daily with food and plenty of water. If you are unable to take a prenatal, ask your doctor about ways to be sure you are getting proper nutrients.