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Can I use complementary medicines during pregnancy?

Although complementary medicines are usually available without a prescription, like any type of medicine they can have some unwanted side effects.

It 's very important to consider the benefits and the risks before taking any type of medication, even if it's 'natural'.

When you are pregnant, it 's important to remember that anything you put into your body may have an affect on your unborn baby. Substances that you take can pass through the placenta and to the baby, so it 's a good idea to take as few medications as possible. This is particularly important during the first trimester (12-13 weeks) when the baby 's organs are developing. This includes herbal remedies and food supplements (which most women don 't need if they eat a balanced diet). Folic acid supplements are the exception - these should be taken for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

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Always check with your doctor or midwife before using complementary medicines. You may have used herbal remedies before you got pregnant, but these may no longer be suitable while the baby is developing. Always read the label carefully before taking any medicines to check they are suitable for pregnant women.

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