Your doctor may prescribe you aspirin during your pregnancy. This medication is typically used to treat pain and reduce fever and inflammation. But there are also many other reasons why a doctor may prescribe aspirin. During pregnancy, taking a low dose of aspirin is a safe and inexpensive way to reduce the risk of preeclampsia and to help ensure you deliver a healthy baby.
This low dose is 81mg per day and is commonly known as “baby aspirin.” You should start taking this medicine between 12 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, ideally by 16 weeks. Your doctor will continue prescribing aspirin until your baby is born.
What is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a serious disease related to high blood pressure. It can happen during the second half of pregnancy. If this condition cannot be controlled, the only cure is delivery, which means the baby may be premature and may need extra care after birth. It also increases the risk for induction and C-section.
Are there any risks to taking aspirin?
Your doctor will monitor you throughout your pregnancy. However, several studies have shown no increased risk for any problems during pregnancy while taking aspirin. Therefore, this medication is a safe way to help protect you and your baby!
There are few reasons to avoid aspirin. If you have an allergy to aspirin or other non-steroidal medication (for example, Ibuprofen), an active gastric ulcer or history of intestinal bleeding, please inform your health care team as aspirin might not be safe for you.
Adapted from ACOG Practice Bulletin Number 202, Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia. January 2019.
Learn more:
For more information, contact Prenatal Support Services at (619) 515-2428 or fill out the form below.
