Medication during pregnancy can cause problems for the developing baby. A pregnant woman should be careful when handling medicines and, if in doubt, ask her doctor.

Here are a few guidelines for treating minor ailments during pregnancy. As a general rule, medicine of any kind should be kept to a minimum. In case of prolonged discomfort, the expectant mother should see a doctor.

 

Medication during pregnancy

Antiemetics
An anti-emetic is an anti-nausea medication that the doctor can prescribe if the morning sickness is too severe. The doctor will advise which type is the safest.

Antihistamines

Some types of antihistamines that are available over the counter can be potentially dangerous during pregnancy. Anyone suffering from hay fever or other allergies should speak to their doctor before taking an antihistamine.

Painkillers

Paracetamol is the safest painkiller during pregnancy. Aspirin, ibuprofen and migraine medication should be avoided unless prescribed by your doctor.

Antibiotics

Medicines from the penicillin family are often prescribed for infections during pregnancy as they are considered safe for the baby. If you are allergic to penicillin, erythromicin is an alternative. The following antibiotics can be dangerous for the unborn baby:
Tetracyclines can cause skin discolouration and bone deformities. Chloramphenicol is now only rarely used and can cause blood count disorders in babies. Eye drops containing chloramphenicol are considered harmless.
Streptomycin should be avoided during pregnancy as it can cause hearing damage in the baby.
Sulphonamides are broad-spectrum antibiotics that can cause jaundice in the baby and allergic reactions in the mother.

Laxative

Constipation is quite common during pregnancy and is best prevented by adequate fluid intake and a high-fibre diet. Some laxatives can irritate the bowel and cause contractions in the uterus.

Antacid (acid blocker)

Most acid blockers are also safe for heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy. Iron tablets should be taken separately, as the absorption of acid blockers is reduced.

Diuretics (diuretic agents)

During pregnancy, the body needs sufficient fluids, which is why no diuretic medication should be taken, not even natural remedies. Consult your doctor if your legs are very swollen.

Flu and cold medication

Flu medicines often contain antihistamines or caffeine, which should be avoided during pregnancy. A hot herbal tea and paracetamol are usually just as effective against cold symptoms.

Steroids

Skin creams for eczema that contain steroids should only be used sparingly, but they do not pose too great a risk. Asthma inhalers containing steroids can also usually be used without hesitation after consulting a doctor. If steroids are taken as medication for Crohn's disease, for example, they must not be discontinued, but the doctor should be consulted. Steroids for bodybuilding should never be taken during pregnancy, as they can have a masculinising effect on a female foetus.