Is Taking Ibuprofen during Pregnancy Safe?

Usually, when we’re in pain or have a headache, we reach for the Advil or the Motrin (both forms of the drug ibuprofen), we drink a glass of water a, and we wait to feel better. But what about when you’re pregnant? Is taking ibuprofen during pregnancy an option for pain relief? And, if not, what are the alternatives? Read on for more information on the risks of taking ibuprofen in pregnancy and advice on how to relieve aches and pains naturally.

Is ibuprofen safe during pregnancy?

No. The advice from the medical community is that taking ibuprofen during pregnancy is not advisable, particularly in the final trimester. Ibuprofen has been given a D pregnancy risk category by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This indicates that it is risky to take it during pregnancy. Remember that anything – be it food, liquid, or medication – that you put into your bloodstream has the potential to cross the placenta to your baby. Your body may be able to handle the side effects of ibuprofen, but your unborn baby is far more vulnerable. Medical tests have confirmed that the use of ibuprofen can cause:

• Failure of the baby’s heart or lungs.
• Low levels of amniotic fluid.
• Preterm labor or stillbirth.

Is self-medicating really such a bad thing to do without?

It seems that, since pain management medications such as ibuprofen became freely available, a culture of self-medicating has developed. But is this a good thing?

The overuse of pharmaceuticals such as ibuprofen can mask the symptoms of more severe illnesses and can also cause serious internal damage. And that’s when you’re not pregnant. When your body is housing your baby, it’s even more reason to protect yourself from harm.

What are the alternative methods of pain relief?

Firstly, if any pregnancy pain is severe or ongoing, you should contact your obstetrician or midwife and discuss the symptoms. It could be that the pain is a sign of more serious complications.

If the pain is uncomfortable rather than severe, the following natural pain management methods may help:

• Treating the painful area with a hot water bottle or wheat bag.
• Soaking painful muscles and joints in a warm bath.
• Regular exercise and stretching.
• Eating more potassium-rich foods; such as bananas, spinach, and avocados.
• Massage and physiotherapy.

Do you have a question about ibuprofen and pregnancy?

Remember, there’s no such thing as a stupid question! If you’ve read the article and you’re still wondering something about the use of ibuprofen in pregnancy, it’s more than likely that other women are wondering the same thing. Either post your question in the comments section below or send a private message through our contact us page. We always try to reply as quickly and accurately as possible.

More articles and advice for a healthy pregnancy:

Diet and Exercise for a Healthy Pregnancy: 

You are far less likely to experience aches and pains during pregnancy if you maintain an active lifestyle and eat a balanced and healthy diet. But what does this involve? Check out our sensible guide to diet and exercise during pregnancy here.

Unusual Pregnancy Symptoms: 

We all know about the most common symptoms of pregnancy – from morning sickness to fatigue, they all take their toll. But how much do you know about the less common symptoms of pregnancy? And which symptoms could be a sign of risky complications. Find out in our comprehensive guide to unusual pregnancy symptoms.

Maternity Support Products for a More Comfortable Pregnancy:

If you are suffering from painful or uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms, there are products available which can give you a little extra support and help to ease the symptoms. Check out our guide to the five best pregnancy support products on the market.