Pregnancy is a special time filled with many changes, both physical and emotional. Women who plan to get pregnant or are already pregnant should be mindful of what they put in their body as certain medications can pose a risk to the unborn baby.

The following are some medications that have been identified to pose a risk during pregnancy:.

1. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can increase the risk of miscarriage and can also cause developmental problems in the baby when taken in the first and second trimester of pregnancy.

Doctors usually recommend acetaminophen for pain and fever during pregnancy.

2. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are used to treat epilepsy, but some AEDs such as valproate and phenobarbital can cause birth defects, including neural tube defects and developmental problems.

Women who are taking AEDs should talk to their doctor before getting pregnant or as soon as they find out that they are pregnant to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing AED therapy.

3. Hormonal medications

Hormonal medications such as estrogen, progesterone, and androgen should be used with caution during pregnancy.

These hormones can interfere with the normal development of the baby, and exposure to these hormones during pregnancy can lead to congenital disabilities. Women who are planning to get pregnant should inform their doctor if they are currently taking hormonal medications so that they can adjust the dosage or switch to a safer alternative.

4. Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a medication used to treat severe acne that can cause severe birth defects. The use of isotretinoin during pregnancy can lead to brain and heart defects, cleft palate, and other abnormalities in the baby.

Women who are taking isotretinoin should use effective contraception and should not get pregnant until at least one month after stopping the medication, as isotretinoin can stay in the body for some time after discontinuing use.

5. Lithium

Lithium is a medication used to treat bipolar disorder and can cause heart and kidney problems in the unborn baby. Lithium has also been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and stillbirth.

Women who are taking lithium should talk to their doctor before getting pregnant or as soon as they find out that they are pregnant to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing lithium therapy.

6. Methotrexate

Methotrexate is a medication used to treat cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis that can cause birth defects, miscarriage, and stillbirth.

Women who are taking methotrexate should avoid getting pregnant or should use effective contraception during the treatment and for at least three months after stopping the medication.

7. Paroxetine

Paroxetine is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety that can cause heart defects, lung problems, and other birth defects when taken during pregnancy.

Women who are taking paroxetine should talk to their doctor before getting pregnant or as soon as they find out that they are pregnant to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing paroxetine therapy.

8. Statins

Statins are medications used to lower cholesterol that have been linked to an increased risk of birth defects when taken during pregnancy.

Women who are taking statins should talk to their doctor before getting pregnant or as soon as they find out that they are pregnant to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing statin therapy.

9. Tetracyclines

Tetracyclines are antibiotics that can cause discoloration of the teeth and inhibition of bone growth when taken during pregnancy. Tetracyclines should not be used during the second and third trimester of pregnancy.

Women who are taking tetracyclines should talk to their doctor before getting pregnant or as soon as they find out that they are pregnant to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing tetracycline therapy during pregnancy.

10. Warfarin

Warfarin is a medication used to prevent blood clots that can cause bleeding and birth defects when taken during pregnancy.

Women who are taking warfarin should use effective contraception and should not get pregnant until they stop taking the medication. Heparin is usually recommended as the alternative to warfarin during pregnancy.

Pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider before taking any medication, including over-the-counter medications and supplements.

It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of medication use during pregnancy to ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and the baby.