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During pregnancy, women might experience and suffer from unsolicited headaches. Since your hormone levels are accelerated, there is a peaking production of hCG (the pregnancy hormone) and your blood pressure might also be vulnerable to dropping down, headaches are common and nothing to worry about.
However, during pregnancy, unlike on regular days, you need to think twice before popping in just any pill. It is not just you alone anymore- there is another life developing inside of you and hence, anything that goes into you goes to your baby as well.
The best way to avoid irritating pains of sorts during pregnancy is to focus on your diet and hydration. However, we understand that things might go a little off-road at times, and popping a pill like Tylenol for a headache might look like the only way out.
To make this decision a tad bit easier for you here’s everything you need to know about popping a Tylenol for headache/ backache during pregnancy.
Is Tylenol safe for consumption during pregnancy?
Tylenol essentially is a pain-relieving drug that contains acetaminophen. Doctors do recommend taking Tylenol for mild back pains and headaches during pregnancy as an instant shot of relief. Tylenol is also further safe for reducing mild temperatures during pregnancy.
65% of women have actually been reported to have taken acetaminophen during their pregnancy. Tylenol, also, is considered safer than ibuprofen or aspirin, which can otherwise cause some birth defects in the baby.
Tylenol Extra Strength
Tylenol Extra Strength, much like regular Tylenol, contains acetaminophen but in a higher potency. Having said that, Tylenol Extra Strength is also considered safe for a pregnant woman if taken as per the recommended dosage for adults (2 caplets every 6 hours while symptoms last). It should be made sure that you do not take more than 6 caplets in a period of 24 hours.
Tylenol PM
Unlike Tylenol or Tylenol Extra Strength, Tylenol PM is a combination drug containing acetaminophen and diphenhydramine (commonly known as an antihistamine found in Benadryl). Acetaminophen and diphenhydramine are also considered safe for occasional use by pregnant women. However, if you are using Tylenol PM, ensure that you follow the recommended dosage for adults – 2 caplets at bedtime, and no more than 2 caplets in a period of 24 hours.
What are the risks associated with the consumption of Tylenol during pregnancy? Tylenol During Pregnancy: Risks & Concerns
It is true that acetaminophen is one of the safest pain-relieving remedies for pregnant women. However, research does point out that there could be a possible connection between the consumption of acetaminophen and a slight chance of a baby being born with asthma, ADHD, and autism.
But again, if you do read this paper, you will learn that there is no strong, concrete evidence to prove the possibility yet. It is so because the research was done in animals and the administered dosage was also higher than normal. If not animals, some part of the study was also based on self-reports that came from women who took Tylenol during pregnancy. While this means there is no definitive proof, it is still recommended to be safer than sorry. Always consult your doctor before taking a tablet and, perhaps, take the lowest dose possible.
What are some natural methods of alleviating headaches and backaches during pregnancy?
If you are an expecting mother who is still unsure about popping a pill and would rather resort to a natural method of alleviating your back pain or headache, we are here to help!
Here are some natural methods of getting over pregnancy-related back pain and headache-
● Meditation
Regular meditation, even if it is for a few minutes in the day, can greatly help you get rid of head and backaches. This is because meditation essentially reduces stress and helps you get better sleep. Using a meditation app like Calm could also be helpful.
● Prenatal yoga
Gentle stretching, prenatal yoga, and other forms of pregnancy-safe exercises release tension from your muscles and strengthen them to support the baby, thereby relieving your back pain. Deep breathing during yoga also helps reduce tension headaches.
● Hot/cold packs
While hot packs are helpful to get rid of sinus-related headaches and general muscle aches, cold packs come to use for tension headaches.
● Prenatal massage
A special massage for pregnant women helps relax tight body muscles, thereby lowering stress and alleviating aches.
● Hydration and snacking
Regular, periodic hydration and munching on a snack help maintain your sugar levels and keep you from dehydrating. A good, balanced, and regular diet alone can solve so many problems!
● Belly belts
Belly belts or maternity belts are these rigid belts that are designed to support the belly and reduce the extra pressure on your back. However, before you buy a belly belt, double-check to ensure that you have picked a belt that is safe for you and the baby.
● Body pillows
Placing a pregnancy pillow between your legs when you lie on your side helps reduce pressure on the lower back, hence, alleviating back pain. Pillows also provide cushioning for the baby bump for some extra support while sleeping.
Final Words
While these home remedies and pregnancy-safe medicines like Tylenol can be of help if you do happen to face too many head or backaches, or even other aches of sorts, do not shy from consulting your doctor. A professional could help you figure out what exactly needs to be changed for a healthier, happier mommy and baby!
Can You Take Tylenol While Pregnant FAQs
1. What medications are not safe during pregnancy?
2.Why do I get headaches during pregnancy?
3. What aches and pains are normal during pregnancy?
Reviewed By :
Esha Chainani - Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Dr. Esha Chainani is an Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, and laparoscopic surgeon who aims to break the stigma around women’s health by advocating an inclusive and open practice of obstetrics and gynecology and an author of several internationally published research papers and health articles in the media like the Swaddle.
She also founded Premaa, a non-profit to reduce maternal morbidity and eventual maternal mortality by providing lower-income pregnant women living in urban areas with cell phone access through an app that can feature an entire section about contraception as well for a whole gamut of reproductive health.
A panel for multiple health sessions including with the UN, USAID, BMC, gender at work, and multiple non-profit organisations, and is on the advisory panel of the South Indian medical students association.
