What To Take When You’re Pregnant

By Bonnie Owens on May 20th, 2009

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I am in the middle of my third pregnancy and since about the 6th week, I seem to get a migraine-strength headache at least twice a week.  When these headaches first started, I wanted to take something for relief, but I didn’t know what was safe for the baby.  During my first pre-natal visit, the first question I had was what medications I could take throughout my pregnancy.  Here is a references of common ailments and safe medications to treat them.

Note:  It is in your baby’s best interest to avoid all unprescribed medication until the 12th week of your pregnancy.  Not taking any medication is your safest course.  If you feel a medication is necessary and it is on the list below, use it sparingly and follow the instructions on the drug’s container.  If it is not on this list, contact your doctor before taking it.

Acne  Even if you thought you were way past the acne stage of your life before you got pregnant, many pregnant woman find themselves battling with skin blemishes due to the new influx of hormones.  Believe it or not there are some topical acne cream that are dangerous to your unborn (and even nursing) baby such as Retin-A.  If you are struggling with skin problems stick to benzoyl peroxide 5-10%, topical erythromycin or topical clindamycin.

Allergies  Benedryl

Asthma  Inhalants: Ventolin, Proventil, Metaprel, Aluprent, Tornalate, Vanceril, Beclovent

Cold, Sinustis  Sudafed, plain saline nose drops

Constipation  This is another problem that becomes more prevalent with pregnancy.  For relief eat a lot of fiber rich foods and leafy greens and be sure to drink a lot of water.  If that doesn’t work try Haley’s MO, Seratan, Milk of Magnesia, Doxidan, Metamucil or Surfak.

Cough  Robitussin DM

Diarrhea  Kaopectate, Immodium

External Itching  Calamine lotion or cream, Hydrocortisone 1% cream

Fever  Tylenol (regular or extra-strength)

Flu  Theraflu, Tylenol

Headaches or Pain  Tylenol (regular or extra-strength)

Heartburn, Indigestion  This is another ailment that is more common during pregnancy.  There are a variety of preventive steps to take (see heartburn during pregnancy article on this site), but if all else fails here are a few safe medications that provide fast relief.  Try Gaviscon, Maalox, Mylanta, Titralac, Tums or Rolaids (with or without calcium).

Hemorroids  Another nasty side effect of pregnancy.  I have yet to experience this (knock on computer screen), but my girlfriends who have say that it is awful.  Chances are you will want relief QUICKLY.  Try Nupercainal ointment, Preparation H, Anusol or Tucks.

Nausea, Vomiting  Emetrol, Heavy peach syrup, Vitamin B-6, Sea-Bands

Sore Throat  Any Lozenges, Chloroseptic spray