In recent years, more and more pregnant women have become aware of the substances they take or use frequently. However, not everyone associates the home remedy they find in the kitchen, or the product they buy over-the-counter at the chemist or supermarket, as being a 'drug', or potentially unsafe for themselves or their unborn baby.
There are many types of over-the-counter products pregnant women may use. Essentially, any substance that has the ability to affect the way your body works can be classified as a drug. This includes a wide range of self-help remedies and medications (both medical and
natural) as well as other day to day substances, which can include:
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Vitamins and minerals, protein drinks and/or supplements to increase health and/or get fit or lose weight. |
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Tablets to relieve pain (such as a headache or migraine). |
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Remedies to help with stress and/or depression. |
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Treatments for colds, flu, cough or sinus. |
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Remedies for minor infections. |
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Treatments for indigestion and/or constipation. |
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Creams to help relieve skin irritations or sore muscles. |
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Treatments for parasites such as lice (and nits), scabies or intestinal worms. |
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Personal beauty or hygiene products (such as hair dyes and vaginal deodorants). |
These may come as fluid mixtures, tablets, powders, teas, tinctures, creams, compresses or inhalants. In many cases, people become so used to taking (or using) their 'familiar' treatments that they don't even think of them as being a drug, or a potentially harmful substance during pregnancy