Paracetamol During Pregnancy

Paracetamol is a pain relief medication that provides effective temporary relief from mild to moderate pain associated with many different common conditions – including headache, migraine, osteoarthritis, cold and flu symptoms, toothache, muscular aches, sore throat pain and period pain.

Learn more about using Paracetamol during pregnancy with this simple guide. Pregnant women should seek medical advice before taking paracetamol.

Medicines can affect the unborn baby. Always talk to your doctor before taking any medicine in pregnancy.

It’s important to note that the safety of Paracetamol for use during pregnancy is a key difference between paracetamol and ibuprofen, another common pain reliever. While paracetamol products may be sutiable in most cases of pregnancy, ibuprofen (an anti-inflammatory over-the-counter pain relief medication) should be avoided during the entire pregnancy and is not to be taken at all during the third trimester, unless advised by a healthcare professional.^v

This is because taking ibuprofen during the third trismester of pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of complications for an unborn baby, including heart problems and a reduced amount of amniotic fluid (the clear liquid that surrounds a foetus while inside the uterus, which is essential to healthy physical development).^{v, vi}

Of course, while Paracetamol is generally considered to be a suitable option to use during most pregnancies, you should always consult your doctor or a healthcare professional before taking any form of medication, while pregnant – to make sure it’s right and safe for you.

When using Paracetamol, be sure to always follow the directions for use that are found on the product label. It is recommended that you only take Paracetamol for the shortest possible amount of time and in the lowest effective dose.ⁱ
Pregnant women should always seek advise from their Physician before taking paracetamol or for that matter any medication.
Self medication in NOT advised.