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Medicines in pregnancy

Medicines before and during pregnancy

Information on the use of medicines in before and during pregnancy may be lacking, especially for new or infrequently used products.  

If you're trying for a baby or you are pregnant, it's important to always: 

  • Talk to your doctor immediately if you take regular medicine, ideally before you start trying for a baby or as soon as you find out you're pregnant
  • Check with your doctor, midwife or pharmacist before taking any prescribed medicines or medicines that you have bought 
  • Make sure your doctor, dentist or another healthcare professional knows you're pregnant before they prescribe anything or give you treatment 

Before taking any medicine when you're pregnant, including painkillers, check with your pharmacist, midwife, GP or other health professional that it is suitable for you. This is the case both for medicines prescribed by a doctor and for medicines you buy from a pharmacy or shop. 

The decision to start, stop, continue or change a medicine before or during pregnancy should be made together with your health care provider. But it's also important to never stop taking a medicine that's been prescribed to keep you healthy without first checking with your doctor. 

Breastfeeding and medicines

If you are prescribed medicines and planning to breastfeed, please check with your doctor, pharmacist, midwife or other health professional.

Most medicines can be taken while you're breastfeeding without harming your baby. Find out more information about breastfeeding and medicines, including medicines you should and should not take while breastfeeding. 

Further information and resources