PAIN RELIEF AND SAFETY CAN RHYME DURING YOUR PREGNANCY

If you suffer from chronic pain and wish to have a baby, or are already pregnant, you are probably concerned about the possible effects of your medication on your unborn baby. Rest assured, your pharmacist and doctor will make sure your pain medication is safe for your baby.

EARLY ACTION IS KEY

Ideally, it’s advisable to consult with your doctor when you plan to become pregnant. In cases of unplanned pregnancies, it’s important to inform your pharmacist or doctor as soon as you discover that you are pregnant.

Your healthcare providers will conduct a thorough assessment of the medications you are currently taking and make recommendations for alternative options, if necessary. Don’t hesitate to express any concerns or questions you may have; your active participation in this process is crucial.

It’s essential never to discontinue your treatment independently. Doing so can lead to an increase in pain levels, potentially affecting your health, such as raising your blood pressure, which can also be detrimental to the fetus. Moreover, it may lead to a deterioration of your health condition, making it more challenging to manage once the treatment is resumed.

SAFE USE OF OTC MEDICATIONS DURING PREGNANCY

Acetaminophen is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding and is often the preferred choice for relieving mild to moderate pain.

Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may not be safe for you or your baby, so it’s important to consult your pharmacist before taking them.

When it comes to pain management, combining an over-the-counter (OTC) analgesic with your prescribed pain medication may or may not be a safe option. OTC analgesics can contain the same or very similar active ingredients as your prescription medications, which could lead to unintentional overuse. Many “all-in-one” products designed to treat cold or allergy symptoms also contain analgesics. Therefore, it’s crucial to verify with your pharmacist before using OTC pain relievers.

If you experience an illness, such as a cold, or pregnancy-related discomfort like heartburn, it’s essential to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using an OTC product or natural health product. Your healthcare providers will recommend safe options for alleviating your symptoms.

RELIEVING PAIN WITH NON-DRUG MEASURES

To help relieve your pain, you may also consider alternative methods like stretching, meditation or relaxation techniques. These non-drug methods can help you better manage your pain during and after your pregnancy.