Although pregnancy can bring joy, it can also be fraught with pains, recurring symptoms, and other aches. Your baby is small and absorbs all of your medications while you are pregnant. It's important to only take safe medication for your baby. Here are some common symptoms of pregnancy and the safe medications to use for them.
Heartburn and Indigestion
Progesterone is the main cause of heartburn in pregnancy. Progesterone is a vital pregnancy hormone that causes muscles to relax, including the lower part of your esophageal valle, which helps keep your stomach content in its proper place. Acid reflux is a combination of progesterone slowing digestion and the pressure from a growing uterus. Don't rush to get the Pepto yet. Your baby can be affected by certain medications, especially during the first trimester of his development.
Reduce heartburn's causes is the first step to managing it. Avoid spicy, acidic or fatty foods. You can eat smaller meals and chew more deeply. Also, avoid eating two hours before bed. These changes may not be enough to relieve your symptoms.
Can I take Tums during pregnancy?
Yes! According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), tums can be taken while pregnant. They are rich in calcium, which pregnant women require more, and they have no side effects. You should take them at least 2 hours before you take an iron supplement. Calcium can interfere with iron absorption. BONUS: If you have charlie horses or other cramps during pregnancy, tums can also be used to reduce them.
Pepto Bismol can I be taken during pregnancy?
NO! Because it is not common for medications to be used in pregnancy, most people don't want to risk their baby suffering from possible complications. Although Pepto Bismol is not recommended for pregnant women, some of its properties may be worth considering. Pepto Bismol is a compound known as bismuth subsalicylate. Subsalicylate is an antiinflammatory that can cause bleeding. The FDA has not approved its use in pregnant women.
What about omeprazole and pregnancy?
Yes! Yes! Omeprazole can reduce stomach acid, which can be helpful in heartburn. Omeprazole should not be used for heartburn. It is best to treat your symptoms by making lifestyle changes and only taking medication as an emergency.
There are other options
Low stomach acid can also be a problem. Low stomach acid, also known as hypochlorhydria or low stomach acid, can lead to many issues, such as heartburn, gas, and bloating, hair fall, weak nails, and brittle nails. Low stomach acid can be caused by prolonged use of acid reducers such as Tums and antacids such as Omeprazole. It can also happen if you use NSAIDS such Ibuprofen a lot.
Talk to your doctor if you suspect you might have low stomach acid. It is also possible to treat it with apple cider vinegar (ACV). One tablespoon of ACV mixed with one tablespoon lemon juice, two teaspoons ground ginger and 16 ounces water. Microwave for 1 minute, 15-30 seconds, and then add one tablespoon honey. Consume one to two times daily.
Undiluted ACV can cause tooth enamel erosion. ACV should be taken in small amounts. Consider using pasteurized ACV if you are pregnant. Because of its probiotic properties, most ACV drinkers will recommend the unpasteurized variety. Unpasteurized foods can be dangerous for pregnant women. Unpasteurized ACV has been used by some pregnant women without any problems. You have the option to choose which type of vinegar is safe for you.
Constipation
Pregnant women are more likely to experience constipation. Progesterone relaxes the intestinal muscles. This means that food and waste move slower than normal. This can cause constipation, which can be very unpleasant. Iron supplements may also be helpful for pregnant women who are anemic or iron deficient. Exercise and increased fiber can both help with constipation. You may be able to get iron naturally from food sources, rather than taking a supplement.
Can I take Colace during pregnancy?
Yes! Yes! Colace is an over-the counter drug that can be used to temporarily relieve occasional constipation. It can be used during pregnancy as well as breastfeeding. Colace can be used as a stool softener and comes in soft gels, capsules, and 2-in-1 tablets. These tablets also include a laxative. Before you take these medications, consult your doctor.
Can I drink magnesia milk during pregnancy?
YES! Yes! Milk of Magnesia can be used safely by pregnant women as a mild laxative. It is a liquid saline bowel laxative that produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours. This is not recommended for long-term relief. Talk to your doctor if you experience recurring constipation. To relieve persistent constipation, you will probably need to make the changes listed above.
To make your constipation go away, take a stool softener or laxative. To loosen hard stool, a daily smoothie with spinach, water and high-fiber fruits like berries might be the answer. Moving your body can also help you get moving. Move slowly, such as walking, prenatal yoga or water aerobics.
Nausea
Many pregnant women experience nausea during pregnancy. Some women feel nauseated but never vomit while others vomit several times daily. Some feel nauseated during the first trimester. Others are nauseated until giving birth. You can ease nausea by eating bland foods and snacking more often than you do spicy or fatty foods. Ginger is a common remedy for many women. You can also try these lollipops to soothe upset stomachs.
Can I take Phenergan during pregnancy?
NO! Phenergan, the brand name for promethazine is used to treat nausea, vomiting and motion sickness. It is not recommended to be used during pregnancy or breastfeed. It can slow down babies' breathing and pass through breastmilk. It is possible for some doctors to recommend it during the first trimester. However, the manufacturer advises against using it while pregnant. I find that enough!
What should I do if I have nausea during pregnancy?
Zofran
Zofran is a medication that is commonly prescribed to treat nausea and vomiting in pregnant patients. The FDA approved Zofran for nausea due to chemotherapy or surgery. Zofran's use in pregnancy nausea is off-label. There is evidence that Zofran can cause a slight increase (0.03%) in the risk of developing cleft palate or heart defects in the first trimester.
Bonjesta and Diclegis
Bonjesta and Diclegis have been FDA-approved to treat nausea in pregnancy. The active ingredients of both Diclegis and Bonjesta are doxylamine (also known as Unisom) & vitamin B6. Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition in which severe nausea and vomiting occurs during pregnancy. It makes sense to combine the effects of these medications for better relief, as they have been prescribed for nausea in pregnant women for over 60 years. While lifestyle changes are the best way for nausea to be controlled, medication may be necessary if needed.
Nasal congestion
Sinus pressure or nasal congestion can be caused many ways. The treatment you choose will depend on the cause. It can be difficult to identify the cause of a stuffy nose or sinus pressure, as many conditions can have similar symptoms. Pregnancy rhinitis can cause congestion, which can make it difficult to sleep. Sinusitis is a condition that causes infection of the sinuses. Over-the-counter nasal congestions can worsen pregnancy rhinitis. Be careful when using OTC products. Drink extra fluids, use a humidifier, and sleep with your head up.
Can I use Flonase during pregnancy?
Yes! It's possible that your congestion may be caused by allergies if you experience sneezing, itchy eyes and sneezing. There are many safe options available for pregnant women suffering from allergies. Flonase is an intranasal steroid spray that can be used to treat allergies. Another similar spray is Nasonex. You may also consider Nasonex or other pill antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine.
Can I use Sudafed during pregnancy?
Yes! Sinusitis can be described as a condition that causes severe congestion, such as pain, swelling, sore throat, cough, and fatigue. Women who have normal blood pressure can use Sudafed or other medications that contain pseudoephedrine. As in some cases, ask your doctor for advice.
Pregnancy and herbal teas
Many pregnant women stop drinking caffeine. Be careful what herbal teas you choose to replace the caffeine-rich coffee and tea. Some teas may not be safe for pregnant women.
Can I drink hibiscus tea during pregnancy?
NO! Hibiscus tea is a good choice as it can lower blood pressure and aid weight loss. It could even help prevent cancer. It can be dangerous for pregnant women because of its side effects. A study in rats showing that hibiscus could cause delayed puberty and obesity in offspring, but it is not safe for pregnant women. It can also encourage menstruation which could cause bleeding or even miscarriage. Although it has not been extensively studied, the evidence is strong enough to warn pregnant women against using hibiscus during pregnancy. You should also be alert for hibiscus when you make herbal tea blends.
Can I drink rooibos tea during pregnancy?
Yes! Rooibos, a non-caffeinated herbal tea, is popular for its health benefits. It has a high level antioxidant and may lower cholesterol. It can be consumed safely during pregnancy and can provide a great alternative to coffee or black tea. It is fermented to give it its red-brown colour. The non-fermented version tastes more grassy and is greener.
Safety of other drugs during pregnancy
Can I take Valtrex while pregnant?
Yes! Yes! Valtrex, an antiviral medication that is used to treat genital Herpes, is safe to use during pregnancy.
Can I take amoxicillin during pregnancy?
Yes! Yes! Amoxicillin, an antibiotic belonging to the penicillin family is safe to use during pregnancy.
Can I take Ibuprofen during pregnancy?
NO! Avoiding nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, during pregnancy is not recommended, particularly in the last 20 weeks. These drugs can cause damage to your baby's developing kidneys. Instead, use Tylenol (acetaminophen).
Can I take probiotics during pregnancy?
Yes! Probiotics are good for your gut health. Probiotics are safe to be taken during pregnancy. There are many good reasons to include them into your daily routine.
Can I consume aspartame during pregnancy?
Yes! Aspartame has been approved by the FDA for all persons, even pregnant women. Despite being approved by WHO and FDA, there are still many studies that show aspartame is not safe for pregnant women.
Can I use Spironolactone during pregnancy?
NO! Spironolactone can be used to lower blood pressure. Although it is not approved for use in severe acne treatment, it is used as an alternative therapy. It is not recommended to be used during pregnancy as it could cause harm to the baby. It can also be found in breast milk. These cases show that the risks to the baby and the mother of the medication must be weighed against those to the mother.
Can I take melatonin during pregnancy?
MAYBE. Truth is, nobody knows the truth. Although melatonin is naturally made in the body, it doesn't mean that you shouldn't add more, especially if you are pregnant. If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, talk to your doctor.
Since every baby grows at his/her own pace, measure the baby's height for the best fit. It is much more accurate than going off of the baby's age. Call us with any questions and we will be happy to help you determine the best fit for your baby.
Size | Weight | Height |
---|---|---|
Newborn (NB) | 5-8 Ibs. / 2.3-3.6 kg | 17-21 in. / 43.2-53.3 cm |
0-3M | 6-12 Ibs. / 3.6-5.4 kg | 21-24 in. / 53.3-61 cm |
0-6M | Up to 16 Ibs. / Up to 7.3 kg | 17-21 in. / 43.2-53.3 cm |
3-6M | 12-16 Ibs. / 5.4-7.3 kg | 24-26 in. / 61-66 cm |
3-9M | 12-20 Ibs. / 5.4-9.1 kg | 24-28 in. / 61-71.1 cm |
6-9M | 16-20 Ibs. / 7.3-9.1 kg | 26-28 in. / 66-71.1 cm |
12M | 20-24 Ibs. / 9.1-10.9 kg | 28-30 in. / 71.1-76.2 cm |
18M | 24-28 Ibs. / 10.9-12.7 kg | 30-32 in. / 76.2-81.3 cm |
24M / 2T | 28-32 Ibs. / 12.7-14.5 kg | 32-34 in. / 81.3-86.4 cm |
3T | 32-35 Ibs. / 14.5-15.9 kg | 34-38 in. / 86.4-96.5 cm |
4T | 35-39 lbs. / 15.9-17.7 kg | 38-40 in. / 96.5-101.6 cm |
5T | 39-43 lbs. / 17.7-19.5 kg | 40-44 in. / 101.6-111.8 cm |
Garments are designed to fit snug for child's safety.
Size | Weight | Height |
---|---|---|
6M | 12-16 Ibs. / 5.4-7.3 kg | 24-27 in. / 61-68.6 cm |
12M | 16-20 Ibs. / 7.3-9.1 kg | 27-30 in. / 68.6-76.2 cm |
18M | 20-24 Ibs. / 9.1-10.9 kg | 30-33 in. / 76.2-83.8 cm |
24M / 2T | 24-28 Ibs. / 10.9-12.7 kg | 33-35 in. / 83.8-88.9 cm |
3T | 28-32 Ibs. / 12.7-14.5 kg | 35-39 in. / 88.9-99.1 cm |
4T | 32-36 Ibs. / 14.5-16.3 kg | 39-42 in. / 99.1-106.7 cm |
5T | 36-42 Ibs. / 16.3-19.1 kg | 42-44 in. / 106.7-111.8 cm |
Size
|
Waist
|
Height
|
---|---|---|
4
|
17-19 inches
|
39-41 inches
|
5
|
19-20 inches
|
41-45 inches
|
6
|
20-22 inches
|
45-46 inches
|
7
|
22-23 inches
|
47-50 inches
|
8
|
23-24 inches
|
50-54 inches
|
10/12
|
24-25 inches
|
54-58 inches
|
14/16
|
25-27 inches
|
58-62 inches
|
18/20
|
27-28 inches
|
62-67 inches
|
Size | Waist | Height |
---|---|---|
4 | 17-19 inches | 39-41 inches |
5 | 19-20 inches | 41-45 inches |
6 | 20-21 inches | 45-46 inches |
6x | 21-22 inches | 46-48 inches |
7/8 | 22-23 inches | 48-52 inches |
10/12 | 23-25 inches | 52-58 inches |
14 | 25-27 inches | 58-61 inches |
16 | 27-29 inches | 61-63 inches |