Medications & natural remedies
These natural remedies and over-the-counter medications are generally safe to use for minor health problems while you’re pregnant. Talk to us if you have questions about which remedies are right for you.
Remember, if you’re taking herbal remedies or medications, your baby is taking, them too. Always check with your care specialist to make sure they’re safe for your situation.
| Symptoms | Natural remedies | Over-the-counter remedies |
|---|---|---|
| Over-the-counter remedies | Massage rest cool wash cloth on the forehead. .5 to 1 cup caffeine (coffee, tea) | Acetaminophen (i.e., Tylenol) Do NOT take aspirin or ibuprofen (i.e., Motrin, Advil, etc.). |
| Cold and cough | Rest, drink plenty of warm liquids. Use a vaporizer, humidifier, or shower for nasal congestion. | Acetaminophen (i.e., Tylenol) for aches and fever pseudoephedrine (i.e., Sudafed) for stuffy or runny nose. Chlorpheinramine (ie., Chloritrimeton) for allergies, saline nasal drops or cough drops with Dextromethorphan or Guaifenesin (i.e., Robitussin DM) for congestion and coughs |
| Constipation | Increase fluids and fiber (i.e., prunes) in your diet. Exercise regularly. | Metamucil (plain), Fiberall, Colace, or Miralax |
| Diarrhea | Drink clear liquids. | Imodium |
| Indigestion or heartburn | Eat smaller meals. Wear loose-fitting clothing. Elevate your head when lying down. | Tums (occasional), Maalox, Mylanta, Riopan, Zantac, or Pepcid |
| Hemorrhoids | Use witch hazel pads. Tucks pads, or ice packs. Take a warm sitz bath. | Preparation H, Anusol, or 1% hydrocortisone cream |
| Nausea and vomiting | Acupressure on wrist, ginger tea, capsules or chews | Vitamin B6 (25 mg 3 times per day) Emetrol Doylamine succinate (i.e., Unisom) |
| Vaginal itch | Eat yogurt containing live Lactobacillus organisms. Wear cotton underwear, no underwear at bedtime. Cool and quick showers. Reduce or remove sugar from diet. | 7-day treatment cream (not suppositories) with Monistat or Gyne-Lotrimin (yeast infection) 1% hydrocortisone cream |
How to reach us
Need to make an appointment with your care provider? Feeling something unusual or like you’re going into labor? Want advice about breastfeeding? We’re here for your call.
