When you arepregnantand experiencing pain, you may be wondering which medications are safe to take.
You may also have questions about topical forms of these medications, such as creams or patches.
Getty Images / Oscar Wong
What OTC Pain Relievers Can I Take While Pregnant?
Getty Images / Oscar Wong
Just because a medication is available over the counter does not mean it is safe for everyone.
When you are pregnant, you want to be sure the medication is safe for you and the fetus.
For mild pain or fever, Tylenol is considered the preferred OTC pain reliever to take during pregnancy.
Most healthcare providers recommend pregnant people take this OTC medication for pain or fever over other options.
Generally, they will recommend takingTylenolat the lowest dose for the shortest period.
Tylenol refers to the single-ingredient product that only contains acetaminophen, not any combination products.
You may have heard that some studies suggest taking Tylenol is unsafe during pregnancy.
What OTC Pain Relievers Should I Avoid While Pregnant?
NSAIDsare a class of drugs that are taken to treat pain, fever, and inflammation.
NSAIDs are available in both prescription and OTC forms.
The amniotic fluid surrounds and protects the fetus during pregnancy.
Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be a better option.
Like acetaminophen, NSAIDs can be found in combination drugs as well.
Always check the label and ask your pharmacist for help selecting an appropriate OTC medication.
This is not in the same category as taking higher doses for pain or fever.
Low-dose aspirin is not expected to cause miscarriage, birth defects, or other pregnancy-related problems.
If you take low-dose aspirin, check with your healthcare provider regarding recommendations for use during pregnancy.
Can I Use Topical Pain Relievers During Pregnancy?
Topical medications, such as creams or patches, are applied to an affected area to relieve pain.
Voltaren Arthritis Paincontains diclofenac sodium (an NSAID) and comes with the same NSAID warning about pregnancy.
Topical products that contain ingredients such asmenthol,lidocaine, orcapsaicinmay be safe.
Is CBD Safe to Use During Pregnancy?
“It is sometimes used in oral and topical forms for pain relief.
Marijuana, or cannabis, also containstetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which causes that “high” effect.
Using opioids during pregnancy is dangerous for both the pregnant person and the fetus.
Sometimes, individuals will require a short course of low-dose opioid medications after acesarean (C-section)delivery.
For pain relief, Tylenol is typically what providers will recommend.
That being said, trying non-drug therapies first is often suggested and preferred.
Generally, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe to take during pregnancy.
Avoid other pain relievers, such as NSAIDs, which can carry risks if taken while pregnant.
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