Paracetamol is a popular painkiller used to relieve headaches, fevers and other aches. It’s also used as an over-the-counter drug to help with common pregnancy side effects like nausea and achy joints. But can you take Paracetamol when pregnant?
Paracetamol is safe for most people when used in recommended doses But it can be risky during pregnancy because it may lead to complications for both you and your unborn child. If you are pregnant, the risks of taking paracetamol when pregnant outweigh any potential benefits. In fact, there are no known health benefits of taking paracetamol when pregnant but there are many risks. This article explains if you can you take Paracetamol when pregnant, is paracetamol safe in pregnancy first trimester , as well as why avoiding this drug is best while pregnant.
What can pregnant women take for fever and aches?
If you’re pregnant, you may have limited options for easing common pregnancy symptoms like fever, aches, and pains like –
- Headaches – Common in pregnancy, headaches may be caused by sinuses, migraines, eye irritation, or constipation.
- Backaches – These can be caused by changing hormone levels and your growing uterus.
- Joint pain – This can result from weight gain and changes in your posture.
- Indigestion – Pregnancy hormones can increase your risk of heartburn.
- Fatigue – A normal result of a more active pregnancy.
You can try other easy home remedies to help treat your symptoms like –
- Getting more rest. Your body is working hard during pregnancy — so don’t feel guilty about needing extra sleep! Trying to push yourself beyond your energy level can make you feel worse.
- Taking warm baths. They can help ease aches and pains associated with pregnancy.
- Eating healthy. Eating balanced meals can help with common pregnancy symptoms like indigestion and fatigue.
Can you take Paracetamol when pregnant?
Paracetamol is safe to take during pregnancy. It’s important to note that paracetamol should only be taken when prescribed by your doctor, as it may not be effective in some cases. Paracetamol can reduce the risk of birth defects in children and may be recommended for women who are breastfeeding.
Paracetamol is safe to take during pregnancy if taken exactly as instructed and at the correct dosage. The safest way to take paracetamol is to take a single dose of 500mg every four hours if needed, as you don’t want to overdose on paracetamol and cause any negative side effects. Paracetamol can be taken with food or water, and it’s best to avoid alcohol while taking paracetamol due to its potential side effects of drowsiness and dizziness.
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Why is Paracetamol bad for pregnancy?
Paracetamol has been linked to birth defects like spina bifida, cleft palate and gastroschisis. Gastroschisis is a birth defect in which the baby’s intestines protrude through a hole in the abdominal wall. Spina bifida is a neural tube defect (a type of birth defect) that can cause paralysis, weakness, or other problems related to the spinal cord.
Cleft palate is a birth defect in which part of the palate (roof of the mouth) fails to fuse during fetal development. The risk of these birth defects increases when the mother takes paracetamol in the first trimester of pregnancy. In fact, taking paracetamol in the first trimester is linked to an increased risk of spina bifida and gastroschisis and is not worth the risk.
Tips to handle aches and fevers without Paracetamol
There are other ways to reduce aches and pains during pregnancy without risking your baby’s health.
- Rest – Getting more rest is one of the best ways to deal with aches and pains during pregnancy. It can help you feel less uncomfortable and will allow your body to re-cover and heal.
- Hydration – Drinking plenty of water will help keep you hydrated and can also help reduce headaches caused by dehydration.
- Massages – A relaxing massage can soothe tense muscles and reduce pain.
- Hot/Cold Packs – Applying heat or cold to your body can help ease aching joints and headaches.
- Gentle Exercise – Gentle exercise can improve your mood, reduce fatigue, and boost your energy. Avoid activities that put your body at risk, though.
Is paracetamol safe in pregnancy first trimester?
Paracetamol is safe to take during pregnancy if taken in recommended doses. It is generally considered safe to take during the first trimester of pregnancy, however it may not be appropriate to take while you are pregnant. If you intend to take paracetamol while pregnant, it is important to talk to your doctor or midwife as they will know when it’s safe to use paracetamol and monitor your response to the medicine.
Paracetamol should not be taken by breastfeeding mothers as it passes through breast milk. There are a few reasons why paracetamol may not be appropriate for you while pregnant. Paracetamol toxicity can cause severe birth defects and damage the developing fetus if taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Paracetamol is one of the safest painkillers out there. It’s frequently used to treat minor aches and pains, and is safe to use throughout pregnancy. However, like all painkillers, it can cause side effects in some people. It’s best to avoid using paracetamol if you have liver or kidney problems, or if you’re breastfeeding. If you do need to take it during pregnancy, ensure that you get a dose that’s recommended by your doctor.
Summary
Can you take Paracetamol when pregnant? Yes, Paracetamol is a common drug used to relieve headaches, fevers, and other aches. It is also used as an over-the-counter drug to help with common pregnancy side effects like nausea and achy joints. Paracetamol is safe for most people when used in recommended doses.
If you are pregnant, the risks of taking paracetamol when pregnant outweigh any potential benefits. In fact, there are no known health benefits of taking paracetamol when pregnant, but there are many risks.
Citations
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