Ibuprofen isn’t normally recommended in pregnancy – especially if you’re 30 or more weeks – unless it’s prescribed by a doctor. This is because there might be a link between taking ibuprofen in pregnancy and some birth defects, in particular damage to the baby’s heart and blood vessels.
Which painkiller is safe during pregnancy?
Most pregnant women can take acetaminophen if their doctor gives them the thumbs-up. It’s the most common pain reliever that doctors allow pregnant women to take. Some studies have found that about two-thirds of pregnant women in the U.S. take acetaminophen sometime during their nine-month stretch.
How much ibuprofen is safe during pregnancy?
It’s unlikely that one dose will harm your baby, but taking ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) is generally not recommended when you’re pregnant, especially during the third trimester.
Can I use pain relief cream while pregnant?
Ben Gay, Icy Hot and other muscle creams can help sooth aching backs or other painful muscles—but you need to avoid these during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. That’s because the active ingredient in these is methyl salicylate, which is an NSAID.
Why is ibuprofen bad for pregnancy?
When taken during pregnancy, NSAIDs reduce blood flow to the baby’s kidneys and other important structures. Reduced blood flow to the kidneys leads to reduced urine production by the fetus. Since amniotic fluid is really just the collection of fetal urine, oligohydramnios can develop.
Can I take ibuprofen during first trimester?
Ibuprofen and naproxen are generally considered safe during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, but they are not recommended during the final half of pregnancy because they increase the risk of fetal kidney problems and bleeding during delivery.
What medications are unsafe during pregnancy?
What medicines should you avoid during pregnancy?
- Bismuth subsalicylate (such as Pepto-Bismol).
- Phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine, which are decongestants. …
- Cough and cold medicines that contain guaifenesin. …
- Pain medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen (such as Advil and Motrin) and naproxen (such as Aleve).
How can I get rid of a headache while pregnant?
Primary headaches in pregnant women usually can be treated at home. Rest, a neck or scalp massage, hot or cold packs, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as Tylenol, aspirin, or ibuprofen can reduce the pain.
Is a heating pad bad when pregnant?
It’s fine to use a heating pad to find relief from pregnancy-related aches and pains in your back, hips, and joints. But avoid using it for longer than 20 minutes. Start with the lowest setting, and make sure you don’t fall asleep with it. You can also try a microwaveable heat pack or a hot water bottle.
Is Vicks VapoRub safe during pregnancy?
Cough medicine
Expectorants like Mucinex, cough suppressants like Robitussin, vapor rubs like Vicks VapoRub, and cough drops are all considered safe during pregnancy.