Milk thistle is a plant used as an herbal treatment. Anything you consume during pregnancy, including herbal supplements, has the potential to affect you and your developing baby. It is important to understand the potential benefits and risks of taking milk thistle during pregnancy so you can make the best decision for your situation.
Potential Benefits
According to MedlinePlus, milk thistle has been used for treatment of heartburn and loss of appetite. During pregnancy, you may experience a loss of appetite, especially if you experience morning sickness in early pregnancy. Heartburn is common in the last trimester due to hormones relaxing the valve from your esophagus to your stomach. If you are experiencing these symptoms, talk to your doctor about using milk thistle for relief.
Cholestasis
Cholestasis, a common liver condition that occurs during pregnancy, occurs when the normal flow of bile in your gallbladder is affected by pregnancy hormones. Symptoms include itching, fatigue, loss of appetite and dark urine. According to the American Pregnancy Association, milk thistle is a natural treatment option for cholestasis and is beneficial for your liver. Talk to your doctor before taking milk thistle to help treat cholestasis. The best treatment for you depends on your overall health, health history, preference and your tolerance of other treatments.
Lack of Data
MedlinePlus states that not enough is known about milk thistle during pregnancy, so it is best to avoid it unless your doctor recommends otherwise. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements, so there is no guarantee that milk thistle supplements are safe or effective.
Side Effects
If you take milk thistle during pregnancy, watch for side effects like upset stomach, headache, diarrhea and gas. If your side effects worsen or do not go away, talk to your doctor. He may be able to help you reduce your side effects or come up with another option.
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