Is Aspirin Safe During Pregnancy?

It's important to be very cautious any time you want to take medications during pregnancy. While you may have once been able to reach for a certain medicine, it might be risky for you and the baby after you have conceived. Is Aspirin a safe option during pregnancy? Here's what all women who are expecting should know about taking Aspirin while they are pregnant.

Is it Safe to Take Aspirin During Pregnancy?

Although Aspirin is thought to be safe in low doses after conception, taking it on a regular basis is not considered safe - especially during early or mid pregnancy, according to BabyCenter. If you are thinking about taking Aspirin while you are pregnant, it's important to talk to your doctor. Most doctors prescribe Tylenol for pain relief during pregnancy. Women who use Aspirin to treat a certain condition should talk to their doctors to find out if it is safe to continue taking the medication.

Does Pregnancy Increase the Risk of Complications or Birth Defects?

Using Aspirin during pregnancy has been linked to several pregnancy complications. Studies have found that using the medication can increase the risk of placental abruption and may prevent the baby from growing, according to BabyCenter. There is also an increased risk of heart and lung problems for both mother and baby, according to BabyCenter. These problems are most likely to occur when Aspirin is taken regularly.

Will Aspirin Increase the Risk of Miscarriage?

According to BabyCenter, studies have found a link between Aspirin use during pregnancy and an increased risk of miscarriage. The research is conflicting, however. Some doctors actually prescribe low-dose Aspirin to women during pregnancy to reduce the risk of recurrent miscarriage, according to the Mayo Clinic.

How early in pregnancy you had a miscarriage seems to determine whether Aspirin can reduce the risk. One study found that Aspirin did not reduce the risk of miscarriage for women who had early miscarriages, but it did increase the chances of a live birth for women who previously had late miscarriages, according to Oxford Journals. If you had miscarriages later in pregnancy, taking low-dose Aspirin may be an ideal option, but be sure to talk to your doctor before taking it.

Any time you take a medication during pregnancy, it's important to weigh the benefits and risks. If you and your doctor determine that the benefits outweigh the risks, taking the medication in low doses may be ideal. Before taking Aspirin during pregnancy, be sure to talk to your doctor to find out if this pain reliever is the best option for you. Never take Aspirin or any other medication without approval from your doctor.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Anyone who is concerned about their health should seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare professional.

Sources:
BabyCenter
Mayo Clinic
Oxford Journals