There seems to be a never ending list of questions when it comes to pregnancy and what to do while pregnant. While we can’t help you with those pesky annoyances like not being able to stand up without help, we can educate you on what medications are safe to take while you are expecting.
Getting sick while pregnant is another level of stress on top of everything else that is going on. Most expecting mothers, especially first time pregnant mothers, stop and analyze every move they make in order to keep their growing baby safe. Luckily, most OTC (over the counter) medications are deemed somewhat safe to take while pregnant. Although you should minimize taking any type of OTC drug while pregnant, not taking the medication and letting yourself be sick could potentially outweigh the concern of just taking a quick pill and feeling better. You also need to remember to use only reputable pharmacies like this Canadian Pharmacy.
Pain
Regular and extra strength Tylenol are both great options for pain relief when pregnant. While ibuprofen or Aleve may trigger a decrease in amniotic fluids in the third trimester, which means there will be more pressure on the baby’s umbilical cord. Advil may cause the baby’s heart to close prematurely, which may cause problems later in the pregnancy.
Constipation
Constipation is very common during pregnancy, due to the upset of hormones running through your body at all times. First you can start by upping your fiber intake with more fruits and vegetables and by drinking more fluids throughout the day. You can even try exercising a little more to get things moving. If none of these natural methods end up working then it is okay to try a laxative such as Metamucil or Fiberall.
Indigestion and Heartburn
Heartburn is caused by excess progesterone, which smooth muscle cells relaxing the sphincter between your stomach and esophagus so acid naturally comes up. Try eating more frequent consistent meals and try to avoid rich, fried, or spicy food. It is completely safe to take a few tums in order to help your heartburn or indigestion, just make sure to keep it in check as usual.
Infections
Infection is something that would usually need more serious medications in order to cure. Luckily penicillin is safe for pregnant women, just make sure to talk to your doctor beforehand.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are quite common during pregnancy, even though this condition won’t harm the baby in any way no one wants to suffer through the itchiness. Although there is a small amount of absorption into the bloodstream when you apply vaginal cream, it is in a low enough dose that it will not negatively affect the baby. Try out Monistat or Gynelotrimin and you will be good to go.
Colds
Colds are common enough that it is rare that someone will go nine straight months without one. So when it inevitably comes around you are not going to want to suffer. Obviously, the best solution will be the natural methods of lots of sleep and fluids. You can use nasal spray to help with your stuffiness as well. If these things just aren’t cutting it, pretty much all OTC cold medicines are safe to use during pregnancy. Just make sure to get something that is designed for your specific symptoms. If you have a cough and a runny nose, don’t get something that treats a cough, sore throat, and headache.
John Davis is a seasoned health journalist with expertise in public health and medical research. Holding a degree in health sciences, John excels in making complex health topics understandable and engaging for his readers. His articles, featured in top health publications, cover everything from cutting-edge treatments to public health policies. Outside of journalism, John is an advocate for health education and frequently speaks at community events.