Medications. Medications that increase miscarriage risk during this period include retinoids, misoprostol, methotrexate and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Mums-to-be should always check with their doctor, pharmacist or midwife before taking any medication.
The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) family of painkillers (including ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac) are not suitable for use in the third trimester of pregnancy (see below). Other painkillers such as paracetamol and codeine can be safely used at any time during pregnancy.
Taking ibuprofen occasionally for pain relief, for example when you have a headache, is unlikely to affect your fertility. However, it's best not to take ibuprofen tablets, capsules, granules or liquid for a long time (more than a week) if you're trying to get pregnant. In this case paracetamol is a better option.
Is it safe to take paracetamol in pregnancy? Paracetamol has been used by pregnant women for many years without any obvious harmful effects on the developing baby. For this reason paracetamol is usually recommended as the first choice of painkiller for pregnant women.
Does taking ibuprofen increase the chance of miscarriage? Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy. It is not known if taking ibuprofen early in pregnancy increases the chance for miscarriage. Some studies show a higher chance for miscarriage compared to those who do not take NSAIDs but other studies do not.
While Panadol and other paracetamol products may be used throughout a pregnancy in most cases, ibuprofen (an anti-inflammatory over-the-counter pain relief medication) should be avoided during the entire pregnancy and is not to be taken at all during the third trimester, unless advised by a healthcare professional.
If necessary, Paracetamol 500mg Tables can be used during pregnancy. You should use the lowest possible dose that reduces your pain and/or fever and use it for the shortest time possible.
It has been suggested that some women who miscarry may not make enough progesterone in the early part of pregnancy. Supplementing these women with medications that act like progesterone (these are called progestogens) has been suggested as a possible way to prevent recurrent miscarriage. Why is this important?
Medications you should definitely avoid during pregnancy
Also avoid cough and cold meds that contain alcohol or NSAIDs. Isotretinoin (Accutane): This medication for cystic acne raises the risk of miscarriage and physical and mental defects in babies.
Accutane is high on the list of drugs that cause birth defects. Numerous studies demonstrate the drug causes birth defects and stillbirth if used during pregnancy.
Medicines can be used to end an early pregnancy. In many cases, the first day of your last period has to be less than 9 weeks ago. If you are over 9 weeks pregnant, you can have an in-clinic abortion. Some clinics will go beyond 9 weeks for a medicine abortion.
A woman with a miscarriage can take a medication called misoprostol to miscarry at home. Misoprostol, also known by the trade name “Cytotec”, stimulates the uterus to expel the pregnancy.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided during pregnancy.
Symptoms of early pregnancy include missed periods, nausea and vomiting, breast changes, tiredness and frequent urination. Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other factors such as stress or illness. If you suspect you may be pregnant, see your doctor.
If you've accidentally taken a one-off dosage of ibuprofen before week 30 of your pregnancy, don't worry. This is unlikely to cause any harm, however regular use is dangerous and not recommended. If you have any concerns, please talk your GP, pharmacist or midwife.
Early miscarriages
An early miscarriage happens in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Most women who miscarry do so in the first 12 weeks of their pregnancy. Many women have a miscarriage before they even know they're pregnant. If this happens it can feel like a late period with heavy bleeding.
Sage tea: It's OK to use sage in cooking, but you should avoid sage in concentrated forms during pregnancy such as in teas. It's been linked to miscarriage and high blood pressure.
Miscarriage is not caused by the activities of a healthy pregnant woman, such as jumping, vigorous exercise, and frequent vaginal intercourse.
Taking ibuprofen before week 30 of pregnancy is unlikely to harm a baby in the womb. However, if you have taken or are taking any medicines it is always a good idea to let your doctor know that you are pregnant so that you can decide together whether you still need medication.
Lighter bleeding often lasts one to two weeks and it may stop and start a few times. Taking ibuprofen (up to 800 mg every eight hours) and using a heating pad can help ease painful cramps.