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How should I use medicines during pregnancy?

Some medicines taken by the mother during pregnancy can cross the placenta and reach the baby. You should therefore take care about any medicines taken during pregnancy, as there is a risk that they may harm your baby.

This is more common during the first trimester (the first three months) of pregnancy, although it is still a relatively rare occurrence. For this reason, it is safer to avoid taking any non-essential medicines for mild conditions such as colds or hay- fever.

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If you need to take any medicines while you are pregnant, always talk to your GP, midwife or pharmacist. Essential medicines can often be taken in ways that are less likely to cause harm to your baby.

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