When a woman is pregnant, it is crucial that she carefully considers every substance she puts into her body, including medications. Certain drugs can have dangerous side effects that may harm both the mother and the developing fetus.

In this article, we will explore some of the most common drugs that pregnant women should avoid, their potential risks, and safer alternatives.

Alcohol

Alcohol is one of the most well-known substances that can be harmful to a developing fetus.

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause facial deformities, growth problems, nervous system damage, and cognitive deficits. To avoid these risks, pregnant women should abstain from consuming alcohol for the entirety of their pregnancy.

Tobacco

Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products during pregnancy can cause a range of health problems for both the mother and baby.

Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco smoke can constrict blood vessels in the umbilical cord, restricting the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. This can increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus.

While moderate caffeine intake is generally considered safe during pregnancy, excessive consumption can lead to a higher risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Pregnant women should aim to limit their caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day, which is roughly equivalent to one to two cups of coffee.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are commonly used to treat pain and inflammation. However, they can be dangerous for pregnant women, especially during the third trimester.

NSAIDs can increase the risk of complications like bleeding, premature closure of the ductus arteriosus, and fetal renal impairment. Pregnant women should talk to their doctor before taking any NSAIDs and avoid them in the third trimester.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. While some antidepressants are generally considered safe for pregnant women, others can cause serious birth defects.

For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been linked to an increased risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), a life-threatening condition that affects the lungs. Pregnant women who take antidepressants should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor and consider alternative treatments if possible.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to treat infections during pregnancy. While many antibiotics are safe, others can cause harm to the developing fetus.

For example, tetracyclines can cause discoloration and weakening of the baby’s teeth, and fluoroquinolones can damage the baby’s growing cartilage. Pregnant women should always consult with their doctor before taking any antibiotics and avoid any that have known risks.

Herbal Supplements

While herbal supplements are often marketed as natural and safe, they can pose risks to pregnant women and their developing fetuses.

Many herbal supplements have not been well studied for their effects on pregnancy, and some may interact with prescription drugs or cause allergic reactions. Pregnant women should avoid using any herbal supplements without first consulting with their doctor.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are frequently used to treat allergies and insomnia. While some antihistamines are considered safe for pregnant women, others can be dangerous.

For example, first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness and other side effects that may affect the safety of the pregnancy. Second-generation antihistamines like loratadine and cetirizine are generally considered safer for pregnant women, but should still be used with caution.

Antihypertensive Drugs

Antihypertensive drugs are used to treat high blood pressure during pregnancy. While controlling hypertension is important for the health of both the mother and fetus, some antihypertensive drugs can cause harm.

For example, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) can cause fetal growth restriction, renal impairment, and birth defects. Pregnant women with hypertension should work closely with their doctor to find a safe and effective treatment.

Chemotherapy Drugs

Chemotherapy drugs are used to treat cancer. While these drugs can be lifesaving for the mother, they can also be harmful to the developing fetus. Chemotherapy drugs can cause birth defects, fetal growth restriction, and miscarriage, among other risks.

Pregnant women with cancer should discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with their doctor and consider alternative treatments if possible.

Conclusion

While many drugs are safe for pregnant women to take, there are several that can pose risks to both the mother and the developing fetus.

Pregnant women should always consult with their doctor before taking any medication or supplement and should avoid any substance that has known risks. By carefully considering every substance they put into their bodies, pregnant women can help ensure the health and safety of their babies.