Pregnancy
Congratulations on your pregnancy! Here you will find a list of options for common issues that may arise during pregnancy. This list of options is not meant to replace any recommendation made by your physician. You will also find this list to be the most gentle and safest options to use during pregnancy, so there will be many items left off here, that most certainly may appear on an OTC list given to you by your provider.
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Acne | Acid Reflux | Constipation | Diarrhea | Fever | Gas/Bloating | Hemorrhoids | Nausea and Vomiting | Prenatal Care | Sleep | Stretch Marks | Sun Exposure
*NOTE* If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant:
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Do not take OTC medicines without talking to your doctor first. This includes medicines to treat cough, cold, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea.
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Avoid taking OTC medicines during your first trimester (first 12 to 13 weeks of pregnancy). This is when the risk to your baby is highest.
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Acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol) is safe for short-term pain relief during pregnancy.
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In general, avoid taking aspirin unless your doctor tells you to take it.
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Avoid taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), especially during the first and third trimester. They can cause heart defects in your baby. Examples of NSAIDs are ibuprofen (brand names: Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (brand name: Aleve).
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Avoid combination medicines that treat several symptoms at once. You do not want to expose your baby to too many medicines. If your doctor says it’s safe, use 1 medicine to treat 1 symptom. For example, you might use acetaminophen for a headache. But don’t use acetaminophen combined with other active ingredients, such as decongestants or antihistamines.
Reference:https://familydoctor.org/otc-medicines-and-pregnancy/
1) Pregnancy test
2) Ovulation test
3) Folic Acid (800mcg once daily at least 3 months before conception; 800mcg found in most prenatal multivitamins)
4) Prenatal Vitamins
Always ask health care provider first
1) Benzoyl peroxide agents (2.5%)
2) Salicylic Acid agents (2%)
Stretch Mark Prevention and Treatment
1) Bio-Oil
2) Honest body oil
3) Palmers stretch mark oil
4) Palmers stretch mark cream
Click here to find out when to seek medical attention and information on severe nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, which may require prescription medications.
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1) Eat (small frequent low-fat meals; classic pregnancy nausea and vomiting resolves with eating)
2) Hard Candy
3) Ginger Ale
4) Water
5) Prenatal Vitamin
1) Tums (low-risk medication during pregnancy when used as directed; excessive use should be avoided)
1) Simethicone
1) Witch Hazel Medicated Wipes/Pads
Please click here to read about sharp pains and abdominal pain during pregnancy. For pain other than minor aches and pains, please call doctor for recommendation.
1) Ice pack
2) Acetaminophen
Sinus Congestion:
1) Humidifier
2) Saline Nasal Spray
Sinus pressure/pain:
1) Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes:
Ask MD for recommendation
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1) Good sleep practices for pregnancy: Plan, schedule and prioritize sleep. Unless your health care provider has advised against it, try to exercise for at least 30 minutes per day. Sleep on your left side to improve the flow of blood and nutrients to your fetus and to your uterus and kidneys. Do not sleep on your back. Try to avoid lying on your back for extended periods of time. Drink lots of fluids during the day, especially water, but cut down on the amount you drink in the hours before bedtime. In order to avoid heartburn, do not eat large amounts of spicy, acidic or fried foods. Also, eat frequent small meals throughout the day.
Snoring is very common during pregnancy, but if you have pauses in your breathing associated with your snoring, you should be screened for sleep apnea. Also, have your blood pressure and urine protein checked—especially if you have swollen ankles or headaches. If you develop RLS, you should be evaluated for iron or folate deficiency. If you can't sleep, don't lie in bed forcing yourself to sleep. Get up and read a book, knit or crochet something for your baby, write in a journal, or take a warm bath. When sleeping, lie on your left side with your knees and hips bent. Place pillows between your knees, under your abdomen and behind your back. This may take pressure off your lower back. Put a nightlight in the bathroom instead of turning on the light to use the bathroom — this will be less arousing and help you return to sleep more quickly. Add daytime naps as necessary, but reduce them or nap earlier in the day if you have difficulty falling asleep at night.
2) Body pillow
1) Hydration
2) Shade with hat or umbrella
3) Sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater
4) Avoid long exposure and sunburn