Is it dangerous to take aspirin during pregnancy?

Pregnant women are known to undergo a variety of changes and their body works in such a manner to provide sufficient nutrients and oxygen to their unborn baby. They require proper diet and sometimes even vitamin and mineral supplements.

However, taking drugs during pregnancy may be detrimental for both the baby and the mother. This is the reason why only a well experienced doctor may prescribe some medications during pregnancy, if a pregnant woman needs them. Similarly taking over-the-counter drugs or any kind of herbal remedies should be avoided because of potential harmful effects to the baby.

Medications during Pregnancy

All drugs are classified into several categories according to their effect onto the pregnant woman and her unborn baby. Drugs from specific groups are strictly forbidden and from some groups may be administered. However, there is also a group of drugs which has not been confirmed to cause damage nor the potential damage has been excluded. Such drugs are also avoided.

Still, women may need to take certain drugs if there is no other option. This rarely occurs and represents a very tough decision a doctor must make.

The effects of harmful drugs are most intensive during the first trimester, when organogenesis takes place. If the baby does not develop properly, he/she may be suffering from a variety of defects, malformations and even die.

Taking Aspirin during Pregnancy

It is confirmed that Aspirin taken around the time of conception and in early pregnancy may cause miscarriage.

Certain number of studies have confirmed that intake of Aspirin regularly during pregnancy and in full adult doses may cause certain problems to the unborn baby. Furthermore, if the drug is taken on a daily base throughput the pregnancy, it may increase a risk of placental abruption. Once the placenta separates from the uterus, the chances to save the baby are minimal, especially in early pregnancy.

Also, Aspirin is associated with a delay in labor and it may initiate some lung and heart problems after the child is born. Bleeding complications of the mother and the baby are also a consequence of intake of Aspirin.

Fortunately, the mentioned detrimental effects will never occur if Aspirin is taken occasionally, but it is best to consult the doctor prior to taking any drug including Aspirin.

Some women, however, must take Aspirin throughout their pregnancies because of the underlying condition they are suffering from. For instance, low doses of Aspirin are prescribed to women suffering from Hughes syndrome. The drug prevents formation of blood clots and this way acts against miscarriage. Also, some women who might end up with pre-eclampsia are also prescribed low-dose Aspirin. These cases show that certain illnesses actually do require treatment with Aspirin even though the woman is pregnant.

However, taking Aspirin for pain relief is not a good option. It is better to consult a doctor who will suggest the most convenient drug for this purpose but without any worry that the baby will be jeopardized.