Last Updated on January 10, 2019 by Keisha Mclean-Green

Taking over the counter drugs to alleviate pain is an age old practice, the most common choices being Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen (Tylenol), and Aspirin. So long as they’re not consumed in excess or with alcohol, these three are perfectly safe. The only people who need be on their guard are pregnant women.

While generally safer for the mother than prescription pain medications, there are definite risks. Taking any of these medications during pregnancy could result in adverse effects for the unborn child. Visit Check Pregnancy, to find some tips for your pregnancy. Besides consulting a doctor, the safest course of action is to educate yourself on the particulars of each medicine.

 Ibuprofen

A single dose is unlikely to be harmful to a baby in the womb. According to Gerald Briggs, a pharmacist clinical specialist, some research claims that taking Ibuprofen in the first month of pregnancy could increase the odds of a miscarriage, but nothing concrete has been ascertained. However, taking Ibuprofen, also sold as Advil and Motrin, is not recommended during the third trimester. There have been studies linking it to the closing of a passage in the baby’s heart, potentially resulting in heart or lung damage, even death. Prolonged labor has been cited along with increased bleeding in the mother if taken a week prior to delivery.

If you’ve already taken Ibuprofen while pregnant, there is little chance you have anything to worry about. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.

 Acetaminophen

For decades Acetaminophen or Tylenol has been the pain reliever of choice for healthcare providers, particularly when it comes to reducing fevers which have been known to harm a fetus more than any medicine. For that reason, Tylenol is recommended for fevers of 101 degrees or higher during pregnancy. Extra strength is fine but, as with any drug, avoid taking more than the approved dosage.

A few studies have emerged naming Tylenol as the cause for behavioral issues in babies, such as ADD, if taken late in the pregnancy, but this was only the case with women who took more than the recommended amount. Multi-symptom variations, such as Tylenol Cold, should be cleared by a doctor as they contain several different medications.

 Aspirin

Aspirin has been linked to miscarriages, birth defects, delayed labor, heart and lung problems in the baby, and problems during pregnancy. Only take it if necessary for a specific condition, and even then ask your doctor if baby aspirin will suffice.

As with Ibuprofen, one or two doses will likely have zero negative results, but if taken regularly the consequences could be disastrous, especially during the late stages of pregnancy. If looking for a pain relief alternative to Tylenol, the safest route would be to avoid all NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Be sure to check the labels of all bottles before purchase to see what they contain. Ask a pharmacist if you’re uncertain as to the contents.

Better Safe than Sorry

A simple pain reliever, while harmless to the average adult, can be devastating to a potential mother and her baby. If experiencing pain, Tylenol is the safest bet. Remember to consult your physician before taking any medication while pregnant.