Medications And Pregnancy

 

Tylenol and Extra Strength Tylenol is safe at any point during the pregnancy in its usual dose. We do not recommend other pain relievers such as Advil, Aleve or aspirin.

Over-the-counter antacids are safe in pregnancy. Either the liquids such as Maalox or Mylanta, or tablets such as Tums or Rolaids are acceptable.

For nausea and vomiting of early pregnancy ("morning sickness"), the over-the-counter sleeping pill Unisom often has an antinausea effect, although it may make you sleepy. You may take 1/2 to 1 tablet at night, and this often has a residual effect into the next day. You may also take a 1/2 tablet in the morning if necessary. Vitamin B6 25 mg three times a day (brand name Nestrex) may also be helpful for "morning sickness."

Over-the-counter cold medicines are fine during any stage of the pregnancy. However, we do not recommend cold syrups that have alcohol in them or combination cold preparations which have Advil or aspirin in them. The following are suggested medications for cold symptoms:

Congestion - Sudafed or nasal sprays

Cough - Robitussin or Robitussin DM

Sore Throat - any throat lozenge

Muscle Aches - Tylenol

Runny Nose - Any over-the-counter antihistamine

Most antibiotics are also safe during pregnancy. However, feel free to check with us if you need to take any prescription medication just to make sure.

TRAVEL & PREGNANCY

You may travel by any means including air travel up until one month before your due date if your pregnancy is uncomplicated. After 36 weeks, we recommend that you remain within one hour of a hospital.

WEIGHT GAIN IN PREGNANCY

The usual weight gain in pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds for the entire pregnancy. Most of this weight gain comes in the second and third trimester at a rate of about 1 pound per week. Weight gain is variable in the first trimester. You may even lose some weight as your appetite may be decreased. If you are overweight, you do not need to gain as much weight.

SEATBELT USE

We recommend that you wear your seatbelt whenever you are riding or driving in a car. Even in the third trimester, it is fine to have the shoulder strap go across the uterus.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

You may exercise throughout your pregnancy. Walking, running, swimming, aerobics, and moderate weight training are all acceptable. We do not recommend contact sports or sports where you are likely to fall such as snow skiing, water skiing, or horseback riding beyond the first trimester. You may have sex throughout the pregnancy if your pregnancy has been uncomplicated.

 

This information is provided as a resource only and is not intended to be a recommendation or a substitute for consultation with Dr. Randell regarding your health and needs.