Figuring out what pills and supplements are necessary or safe to take during a pregnancy can be complicated. For instance, with all the aches and pains of gestation, it can be tempting to take painkillers such as aspirin. Other women wonder what vitamins or supplements they should take to promote the healthy development of their child. Always consult your health care provider before beginning any new medication during your pregnancy.
Baby Aspirin
Low-dose aspirin, or baby aspirin, sometimes is prescribed to prevent or treat pregnancy-induced hypertension, also known as preeclampsia or toxemia. Preeclampsia is high blood pressure brought about by a pregnancy. It is a serious condition that can cause significant problems for the mother and infant. Unfortunately, the benefits of low-dose aspirin for women with pregnancy-induced hypertension are little to moderate.
Contraindications
Baby aspirin is considered tentatively safe for women in their first two trimesters when there is a true need for the medication and no alternatives are available. During the third trimester, however, aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are associated with fetal cardiovascular complications and maternal bleeding during labor and delivery. Other pain relievers like acetaminophen and Tylenol are safer options for women at all stages of their pregnancy. Consult your physician before taking any medication.
Fish Oil
Fish oil contains compounds called omega-3 fatty acids that are not produced by the human body. Omega-3 fatty acids play an essential role in human physiology by regulating hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which are involved in cardiovascular, neurologic and immunologic processes. Consequently, adequate omega-3 fatty acid consumption plays an important role in maintaining good health.
Fish Oil During Pregnancy
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for fetal neurologic and visual development. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids help to prevent pregnancy-induced hypertension, low birth weight and maternal postpartum depression. Omega-3 capsules are available at most pharmacies and often packaged with prenatal vitamins. Pregnant and lactating women should consume about 300 mg of an omega-3 called docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, daily. Speak with your physician before beginning any supplements or medications during your pregnancy.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension
- MayoClinc.com; Aspirin During Pregnancy; Roger Harms, MD
- Drug Information Online: Aspirin Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings
- Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; Withdrawn: Antiplatelet Agents for Prevent and Treating Pre-eclampsia; M Knight, et al; July 2007
- American Pregnancy Association: Omega-3 Fish Oil and Pregnancy
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