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| Pregnancy Health
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Drugs During Pregnancy
Mother & Baby gives you the low-down on what’s safe to take and what’s not
The general rule on taking drugs during pregnancy is: Don’t! But sometimes you may need to, to alleviate the symptoms. So, here’s the low-down on what’s safe to take and what’s not.
PAINKILLERS
Paracetamol is considered safe in pregnancy, as long as you don’t exceed the recommended dose. Try to keep your intake to a minimum, though.
It’s worth bearing in mind the results of a recent study, which suggested frequent use of paracetamol in the later stage of pregnancy could increase the chance of your baby suffering from wheezing in early childhood.
Ibuprofen should be avoided in the third trimester because it can restrict your baby’s circulation and delay the onset of labour. Don’t take aspirin either, unless prescribed by your doctor ? it thins the blood and will affect your baby.
OVER-THE-COUNTER REMEDIES
Pharmacy-bought cold remedies aren’t always suitable for use in pregnancy. They often contain ephedrine, codeine, alcohol, caffeine, sodium citrate or sodium bicarbonate, which aren’t considered safe for your growing baby.
It’s important to always check with the pharmacist or your doctor before using any over-the-counter medicines when you’re pregnant.
ANTIBIOTICS
Many antibiotics are not considered safe in pregnancy. Tetracycline, erythromycin, streptomycin and quinolone should all be avoided, as they can have adverse effects on your unborn baby.
Penicillin and amoxycillin, often prescribed in pregnancy, have no known adverse side effects.
VITAMINS AND MINERALS
Stick to those specially formulated for pregnancy, as high doses of some vitamins, such as vitamin A, aren’t recommended since they can harm an unborn baby. Your gynae or GP can give you more advice.
TCM
For centuries, Chinese medicine has been used to relieve many symptoms and complications during pregnancy. Angelica root (dang gui), for example, is frequently combined with other herbs and used as a nutrient tonic for expectant mums, says Seah Ai Wei, a physician at Raffles Chinese Medicine.
However, as with any other medicine, these herbs are not free of side effects, Seah warns. Angelica root, for instance, is extremely low in toxicity, but some studies show that this herb should not be used for pregnant or lactating women.
At the same time, there are certain conditions in pregnancy where treatment necessitates the use of such herbs. To treat a patient safely, the physician needs to diagnose the condition correctly and prescribe the herbs in safe doses.
Since there are many Chinese herbs that can be taken during pregnancy and, at the same time, many others that should be avoided, always speak to your physician to ensure that the remedies for safe for your baby.
AROMATHERAPY OILS
Many of the herbs in essential oils used in aromatherapy massage can trigger contractions. If you visit a spa, it’s very important that you tell your therapist you’re pregnant, so she knows which oils to avoid. If you’re buying oils for your own use, get them from a reputable brand and ask the shop assistant if they’re safe to use during pregnancy.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR
There are some infections that should be avoided during pregnancy. A few, such as chickenpox, German measles (rubella) and slapped cheek syndrome (parvovirus B19), can affect your baby.
If you have any symptoms you’re concerned about, such as spots or a fever that won’t go down, get medical advice.
“But try not to get stressed about being ill,” says Dr Ridley. “Just take sensible measures to avoid infection and enjoy your pregnancy without getting paranoid.” |
If you have any comments or practical suggestions, write to us at editor@family.sg
- Mother & Baby
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