When you’re pregnant, knowing what you can consume and what to avoid is key - especially when it comes to over-the-counter medicines. And, since pregnancy often comes with a lot of aches and pains, pregnant parents find themselves asking, “can you take Tylenol while pregnant?”
The answer, in short: Yes. In most cases Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe to treat pain during pregnancy though you should consult your doctor first. But, pay attention to which Tylenol you’re purchasing, how often you’re consuming it, and how much you’re consuming. As always, don’t take anything without first consulting with your healthcare providers.
Can you Take Tylenol While Pregnant?
Tylenol, also known as acetaminophen, has been shown safe to use at all stages of pregnancy and does not increase fetal risk in any trimester, as long as it stays within the suggested dosage and is not combined with any other medications.
How Much Tylenol Can you Take While Pregnant?
After consulting with your doctor, and gaining their approval, you can take as much as two extra-strength tablets, 500 milligrams each, every four hours, up to four times a day. However, you should start with a smaller dose, such as two 325mg tablets. Do not exceed the maximum daily limit.
Can you Take Tylenol Extra Strength While Pregnant?
Yes, as long as you stay under the daily recommended dosage, however, it’s best to check with your health care provider first. Be sure to specify which version of Tylenol you are asking about.
Are there any concerns about taking Tylenol while pregnant?
Some newer studies have raised concerns about taking Acetaminophen while pregnant, but the FDA and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists still recommend Tylenol as a safe choice, Stating, “ACOG and obstetrician-gynecologists across the country have always identified acetaminophen as one of the only safe pain relievers for pregnant individuals during pregnancy.” In an article published by the FDA in response to these studies, the FDA says the studies are too limited to make any recommendations based on their findings. Some providers may say that it is important to remember that pain and fever during pregnancy can harm the developing fetus and doctors still consider acetaminophen safe for short-term use (one week or less) during pregnancy.
What Are Other Ways to Manage Pain While Pregnant?
Some other ways to manage pain or discomfort while pregnant are:
- Breathing exercises. These exercises can help calm your mind and body, allowing you to relax and release tension. Take a few minutes a day to do this, and try pairing with light yoga or stretching,
- Yoga & Stretching. Prenatal yoga and stretching can help relieve tension causing common back and body pain during pregnancy.
- Use correct pillows for support while sleeping. There are many options for pregnancy pillows on the market— find the one that helps support your body in the most comfortable way so you can get a good nights sleep without adding extra tension your body.
- Try a belly support band. Belly support bands stabilize your pelvis to help reduce aches and pains by more evenly distributing the weight of your pregnant stomach.
- Wear compression garments. Wearing compression garments help promote healthy blood circulation and can help alleviate achy legs.
- Pay a visit to a chiropractor or pelvic floor specialist. Sometimes working with a specialist can help improve alignment and flexibility, which can decrease aches and pains associated with pregnancy.
For more ways to care for your pregnant body, prepare for labor, and learn what to expect during delivery, make sure to check out our online class, Childbirth 101: Labor through Postpartum. In this class, Labor and Delivery nurse, Ashley Derderian Sousa, walks you through how to effectively manage pain, birthing positions, stages of labor, packing your hospital bag and so much more.
