Drugs, beware

An agent that causes or promotes a fetal defect or abnormality to occur at a higher rate than expected is called a teratogen. The agent may be a chemical, a drug, an infection, radiation, or a maternal condition such as diabetes. Most teratogens exert their effect during the crucial times of fetal development.

While many medications during pregnancyare safe to use, some prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications can boost risks of miscarriage and birth defectsduring pregnancy. That’s why it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about which medications you’re taking before you get pregnant. However, if you’re surprised to find yourself expecting and aren’t sure about the connection between medications and pregnancy, and you’ve have taken OTC or prescription medications since conceiving.

If necessary, your doctor can prescribe safer alternatives to the medications you’re taking. Certain drugs are safe during early pregnancy, but not later, and vice versa. In addition, your physician may need to change the dose of certain drugs you’re taking during pregnancy. So keep consulting your physician throughout your pregnancy. It’s also extremely important that you tell your doctor about any herbal, “natural”, or alternative medicines or treatments you’re receiving. Taking alternative medicines can affect you and your baby’s health during pregnancy.

Safer OTCs

  • Allergy medications: Many, including the nasal spray Nasalcrom, and antihistamines such as Benadryl and Unisom
  • Antinausea drugs: Vitamin B6 (up to 100 milligrams daily), and other products, including Dramamine and Unisom
  • Constipation remedies: Stool softeners and other products, including Milk of Magnesia, Amphogel, and Maalox
  • Flu fighters: The flu vaccine. Caveat: If you’re allergic to eggs or chicken, you shouldn’t get this vaccine, which may contain egg protein.
  • Heartburn remedies: Many antacids, including Amphogel, Gelusil, and Maalox
  • Multivitamins: Many brands, as long as they don’t include doses of vitamins or minerals far in excess of the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI).
  • Pain relievers: Acetaminophen, or Tylenol
  • Yeast Infection remedies: Most vaginal creams, including Monistat and Femizol-M

Herbal Remedies

Many people believe that herbal remedies are safer than traditional drugs. But herbal products are regulated differently than traditional drugs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The manufacturer doesn’t have to conduct strict studies demonstrating an herbal remedy’s safety or effectiveness before sending it out to the marketplace. Nor does the company have to adhere to the same standard quality controls used for drugs developed by pharmaceutical companies.

Popular Herbal Remedies

There are approximately 400 herbs sold in capsule, extract, and tablet form, and also in the form of teas. Here some examples,

Ginseng Herbal Remedy for Pregnancy

Ginseng has many purported (but unproven) benefits, including enhancing concentration and fighting stress.

One small study found a threefold increased risk of gestational diabetes in pregnant women who used it.

To decrease stress and improve overall energy levels and mental focus, try a pregnancy exercise class or yoga approved for pregnant women.

Raspberry-leaf Tea Herbal Remedy for Pregnancy

This herb is thought to ease the symptoms of morning sickness.

Raspberry-leaf tea may trigger uterine contractions.

Studies have shown that ginger can help women with severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum) by making them feel less nauseated. However, before you take concentrated forms of ginger, talk to your doctor about any risks.

Echinacea Herbal Remedy for Pregnancy

This herb is used to bolster the immune system and ward off colds.

Echinacea has no known risks for pregnant women. But a recent study found that it may impair fertility. Ginkgo biloba was implicated in the same study, so if you’re trying to conceive, avoid both.

Drink plenty of orange juice during pregnancy, as vitamin C is helpful to the immune system and provides the nutrition you and your baby need.

Hair Coloring Safety

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t done any conclusive studies on the effects of hair color chemicals on a developing fetus, but it’s better to play it safe.

  • Wait out the first trimester. Most doctors and colorists recommend not doing chemical processes during the first three months of pregnancy for both safety reasons and your potential sensitivity to the chemical fumes. Also, hair may change during pregnancy. Some people get more gray hair, others find that their hair’s texture changes dramatically. After the first trimester you’ll have a better idea what you’re dealing with.
  • Avoid processes that involve scalp contact. All the experts agree that any color process should avoid touching the skin and scalp to prevent absorption of chemicals into the bloodstream. This means no single-process color, which is harsher and comes into contact with hair roots.
  • Try temporary color. Here’s the ultimate no-commitment option — a hair mascara wand or a hair pencil. The results only last until your next shampoo, and they’re nontoxic.
  • Opt for highlights. This process involves painting sections of the hair with permanent color (which contains peroxide and ammonia) but not allowing the solution to touch the scalp or skin.

Sources: Parents, Safe Fetus

Related Posts