Pregnant women often experience physical discomforts and pains such as headaches, muscle aches and cramps, and swelling. Because of the risks associated with taking any medication during pregnancy, many pregnant women are uncertain about taking medications such as ibuprofen (the active ingredient in Motrin). It’s important for pregnant women to understand the risks and benefits of taking Motrin while pregnant. This blog post will provide an overview of Motrin, the potential risks and benefits associated with taking it while pregnant, and advice on when it is safe to take Motrin during pregnancy. We will also address common questions related to taking Motrin while pregnant and discuss alternatives to Motrin. Pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider before taking any medication. With the right information and guidance, pregnant women can make informed decisions about their health and safety.
Why NSAIDs are problematic during pregnancy
NSAIDs block the production of prostaglandins in the body. These substances aid in the body’s natural process of reducing inflammation, which is part of what causes cold and flu symptoms like congestion, headaches, and aches and pains. Prostaglandins also regulate blood flow in blood vessels.
NSAID use during pregnancy decreases blood flow to the developing baby’s kidneys and other vital organs. The fetus produces less urine as a result of reduced blood flow to the kidneys. Oligohydramnios can arise because amniotic fluid is essentially just a collection of fetal urine. These medications may cause a reaction that prematurely closes a vital cardiac blood vessel, endangering the developing fetus.
While some circumstances, like possibly preventing preeclampsia, necessitate the use of NSAIDs, the risks typically outweigh the advantages when pregnant. Fortunately, there are other options to help you control cold and flu symptoms.
Many doctors simply advise their patients to avoid ibuprofen entirely while pregnant due to its potentially harmful side effects and the fact that it can be challenging to remember what week of pregnancy you’re in. Instead of taking aspirin, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) if you have a fever or need pain relief. Research has shown acetaminophen to be safe throughout pregnancy.
Please be aware that The Bump and the materials and information contained therein are not intended to be, and do not constitute, medical advice or diagnosis of any kind. Always talk to a licensed doctor or other health care provider about your individual situation.
Don’t freak out if you took ibuprofen before you knew you were pregnant or before you read this article. Even if you took a single dose after the 30-week mark, your baby won’t be harmed, claims Kasper. Ibuprofen’s dangerous side effects typically manifest after prolonged, chronic use of the drug. Your baby will be fine if you took a dose of Advil last week because you had a headache while you were 33 weeks pregnant. ”.
Ibuprofen is actually quite safe in the early stages of pregnancy, but if you take it after 30 weeks or so, it can seriously harm the unborn child. When taken in late pregnancy, ibuprofen can actually cause a vital passageway in the baby’s heart to close. That opening must remain open while the baby is still in the uterus, and it is intended to close shortly after delivery. Kelly Kasper, MD, an obstetrician and an adjunct clinical professor at Indiana University School of Medicine, makes this statement. “If that opening closes before birth, it could result in serious issues, such as heart or lung damage or even death.” ”.
Ibuprofen is a fantastic painkiller and fever reducer, commonly marketed under the brand names Motrin and Advil. But it’s best to stay away from it right now.
Most healthcare providers aren’t comfortable with women taking ibuprofen or Motrin while pregnant due to the risk of miscarriage and heart defects in the fetus.
Both of these questions are frequently asked during pregnancy: “Can you take Motrin while pregnant?” and “Can you take ibuprofen while pregnant?” The short answer is that most medical professionals are uncomfortable with pregnant women taking ibuprofen or Motrin.
The same is valid for any drug that contains ibuprofen as an active component. In the third trimester of pregnancy, taking ibuprofen products like Motrin can be particularly risky. Many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not advised for use during pregnancy, including ibuprofen. NSAIDs also include aspirin and naproxen.
FAQ
What happens if you take Motrin while pregnant?
Can you take Tylenol or Motrin while pregnant?
How much Motrin Can a pregnant woman take?
What pain relievers can I take while pregnant?