NSAID Risks: Making Smart Healthcare Decisions During Pregnancy

When you’re pregnant, you’re not immune to aches and pains. Over 85% of women are estimated to deal with back pain during pregnancy. Finding relief without the use of medicine is almost always the best route. Even over-the-counter medication can be dangerous to take before and during pregnancy.


All medications have side effects, and these are often heightened during pregnancy. For instance, a drug like acetaminophen has been linked to a greater risk of challenges such as ADHD and asthma. However, medication use around conception may be the most dangerous. NSAID has been linked to a 59% increased risk of miscarriage.


Taking NSAIDs can increase the risks of asthma and hypertension in newborns.


NSAIDs cross from mother to baby easily through the placenta and can influence the production of prostaglandins.


Finding organic pain solutions before conception and throughout pregnancy is a
smart decision.

Science Sources: 

Back Pain in Pregnancy. University of Rochester Medical Center


Optimizing pain relief during pregnancy using manual therapy. Canadian Family Physician. 2013


Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs during pregnancy and the risk of miscarriage. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2018


NSAID Use During Pregnancy Linked to Pulmonary Hypertension In Newborns. Pharmacy Today. 2001


Safe, Healthy Birth: What Every Pregnant Woman Needs to Know. The Journal of Perinatal Education. 2009

About the Author

Dr. Michael Ingui, DC, MAS, DIANM is a Board Certified Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine Specialist and founder of Kynetex Sports Care & Rehabilitation. He holds a Master of Applied Science in Population Health Management from Johns Hopkins University and serves as Chairman & CEO of CareLink Health Management Group. Dr. Ingui combines advanced clinical expertise with extensive training in exercise science and sports rehabilitation. Learn more about Dr. Ingui at https://kynetex.com/locations/michael-r-ingui-chiropractor-ramsey/