Pregnancy Medications.
Many other specific chronic illnesses can affect a pregnancy. If you have any chronic problem or take any medication on a regular basis, talk it over with your caregiver. Current Medications It's important for you and your caregiver to consider the possibility of pregnancy each time you are given a prescription or told to take a medication. When you are pregnant, everything changes with regard to medications. Medications that are safe when you are not pregnant may have harmful effects when you are pregnant. Whether a medication is safe during pregnancy is not always known. Ask your doctor before changing any medication. (Some effects of medications and chemicals are discussed in Week 4.) Most organ development in the baby occurs in the first trimester. This is an important time to avoid exposing your baby to unnecessary medications. You'll feel better and do better during pregnancy if you have medication use under control before you try to get pregnant. Some medications are intended for short-term use, such as antibiotics for infections. Others are for chronic or long-lasting problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Some medications are OK to take while you are pregnant and might even help make your pregnancy successful. Other medications may not be safe to take during pregnancy. Vaccinations The same rule applies to vaccinations as to X-ray tests when you have a vaccination, use reliable contraception. Some vaccines are safe during pregnancy; some are not. A good rule of thumb is to complete vaccinations at least 3 months before trying to get pregnant. Vaccinations are usually most harmful to a pregnancy in the first trimester.
|
