Medicines and pregnancy Rongoā hapūtanga
Many medicines are safe to take during pregnancy but some can harm your pēpi. You should talk with your midwife or doctor about any medicines you take and check before taking any new ones.
Taking medicines when you are pregnant
Taking medicines while pregnant can affect your pēpi. If you need to take any over the counter medicine while pregnant, first check if it is safe with your midwife, doctor or pharmacist.
If you take any prescription medicines or have a health condition, it is best you talk to your healthcare provider before you try to get pregnant. This is because some medicines are not safe to take when you are pregnant, and you may be advised to change to another medicine. You may also need to be monitored more closely while you are pregnant.
If your pregnancy was not planned, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible about your medicines and health conditions.
Existing health conditions and pregnancy
Pain relief when you are pregnant
It is safe to take paracetamol when you are pregnant. The adult dose is 2 tablets up to 4 times a day. But you should only take paracetamol if you really need it.
If you need to take paracetamol regularly for pain, talk to your midwife or doctor. The pain may need to be investigated.
You should not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen while you are pregnant.
Supplements and complementary therapies when you are pregnant
Not all supplements and herbal, homeopathic or aromatherapy treatments are safe in pregnancy.
Some of these substances can be harmful to your pēpi. Also, some preparations can be contaminated by potentially harmful substances.
Discuss the use of any of these treatments with your midwife, doctor or pharmacist.