The Dangers of Over-the-Counter Pain Medications in Pregnancy

Taking painkillers during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage.

Most people harbor misconceptions about over-the-counter drugs such as aspirin, and Advil for example. It is easy to believe that these pain relievers are safe because they don’t require a prescription. That myth has caused numerous hospitalizations and even deaths and it may be causing miscarriages as well according to the research study published in BMJ (2003;327:368, August 16, 2003)  (formerly, British Medical Journal)

This study found that women who take aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, and Alleve) during pregnancy increase their risk of miscarriage by 80%.

That is an 80% increased risk of miscarriage. How can this be?

These drugs work by suppressing the production of prostaglandins.  Prostaglandins are fatty acids needed for successful implantation of an embryo in the womb.  Because NSAIDs and aspirin act on the whole body, not just the part that hurts, the use of them can lead to abnormal implantation of an embryo which can often result in a miscarriage.

This staggering information is well known today. Midwives and OBs are educating women to NOT take over the counter medications for this very reason. But what can be done about your head ache? Your sinus pressure? Your low back pain?

Chiropractic care offers a safe, gentle and effective alternative to dangerous over the counter medications. In fact, chiropractic care is so much more than that! Chiropractic works to restore function to you body. This leads to a healthier pregnancy and an easier birth.

Are you ready to make the switch?

SOURCE “Exposure to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs during pregnancy and risk of miscarriage: population bases cohort study,”