Women need to pay particular attention to the medications that they use while pregnant. This is because they are in a sensitive state and can be adversely affected by certain ingredients in some of these drugs.
So, it is not enough to say that the medication is fine with all people. For example, while people at large can use antacids, a lot of antacids are not safe for pregnant women. You may want to read this report on if you can take Tums antacid while pregnant. By and large, decisions to use any drug during pregnancy should be run through your doctor. This is for proper diagnosis of your state and to determine if the medication is safe and right for you.
In the spirit of using a medication that is safe and right for treatment or relief of headaches, migraines, pains, and aches during pregnancy; this IST Health sexuality article will discuss if you can take or should avoid Excedrin products as a pregnant woman. This is particularly during the first trimester as mentioned by people on some pregnancy forums. So, read on as the information will help you make informed choices during pregnancy.
Summary
Headaches and Migraines during the First Trimester
Experience has taught us that pregnancy symptoms are somewhat peculiar. In light of this, some women will not have to deal with that ringing sensation in their head – headaches and/or migraines; during pregnancy. However, it is a possibility and a huge one from the report that our team has gathered.
Although its adverse effects do not include damage to the baby in the womb, these headaches or migraines can be quite severe. Such kinds of headaches and migraines seem to go along with sleep disturbance. This is particularly in the first trimester. Medical reports from some trusted sources explain that it will likely become less severe with time.
But how do you treat or get soon-enough relief when the headache or migraine is unbearable? Can you use headache and migraine medications for instant relief (particularly Excedrin products)? Well, the answer is not so straightforward but we have simplified it in the part below. So, read on to learn more.
Is It Safe to Use Excedrin Products During Your First Trimester?
Some Excedrin products are safer to use during pregnancy than others. This is because of the primary ingredients used in making them. Of all the available Excedrin drugs, Excedrin Tension Headache is the safest to use during pregnancy. The simple reason is that aspirin is not a part of the ingredient used in making this drug. Rather, it is just caffeine and Tylenol (acetaminophen) involved.
Caffeine is safe for pregnant women as long as it is taken moderately (every day). The recommendation is not to take more than 200 mg each day and the recommended dose of this medication is way below that. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is also considered safe as long as pregnant women only take it when the need arises. Other available Excedrin medications are Excedrin:
- Migraine
- Extra Strength
- PM Headache
But by and large, whichever Excedrin drug you need to use, the first trimester is the safest time to use them (if you have to). The risk of having you and your baby facing the side effects of Excedrin medications is increased when used after 20 weeks after conception. Week 20 is roughly the mid-way point of your second trimester.
For the most part, the side effects are a result of the involvement of aspirin in the product’s mix. As a non-steroidal kind of Anti-Inflammatory medication (NSAID), some of the adverse effects of using aspirin during pregnancy include:
- Ductus Arteriosus Closure – This is an essential blood vessel in the baby’s heart and aspirin can adversely affect its functioning; by closing it
- Kidney Problems in the Developing Baby – This is especially when used after the mid-way point of the second trimester
- Adverse Impact on Amniotic Fluid – umbilical cord compression; leading to obstruction in the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the baby through blood is possible when this happens. By and large, the adverse impact on amniotic fluid can disrupt the development and growth of the fetus
Other relevant articles can be accessed on the sexuality section of the International Health Alliance website. For example, you can learn about when women start showing pregnancy.