Pregnancy: what medicines and supplements are safe — and how to buy them wisely

Pregnancy raises a lot of questions fast. Which painkiller can I take? Do prenatal vitamins really matter? Can I order prescriptions online? This page pulls together practical answers so you can make safer, smarter choices while pregnant or trying to conceive.

Quick medication rules in pregnancy

Start with your healthcare provider. Tell them every medicine, supplement, and herb you take. Some short rules to remember: acetaminophen is the usual go-to for pain and fever; avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen in the third trimester; steer clear of known teratogens such as isotretinoin and certain chemotherapy drugs. If you’re on antidepressants, antibiotics, or chronic meds, don’t stop abruptly—talk to your prescriber about risks and alternatives.

Got fertility issues? Conditions like high prolactin can affect pregnancy chances. Exercise, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment sometimes help. If you’re using OTC fertility supplements, pick products with clear ingredients and clinical backing. Articles on this site review current OTC fertility options and how they compare to prescription treatments.

Practical prenatal supplement advice

Not all supplements are equal. The basics most doctors recommend are folic acid (400–800 mcg before and during early pregnancy), a prenatal multivitamin with iron, and DHA for baby brain development. Check labels for amounts—not every product contains the effective doses. Avoid high-dose herbs or untested blends during pregnancy. If a supplement makes big medical claims or the label is vague, skip it and ask your provider.

Think about timing too. Start folic acid when you’re trying to conceive, not after you find out you’re pregnant. Iron can cause constipation—ask how to split doses or try different forms if you have trouble. If nausea is a major issue, some anti-nausea options are safe but should be discussed with your clinician.

Worried about medication side effects on sleep, mood, or breastfeeding? Read the drug-specific guidance available here—topics include antidepressants, NSAIDs, and sleep impacts—so you’re not guessing in the middle of the night.

What about environmental risks? Some meds and their breakdown products can affect the environment. While that’s a wider issue, it’s worth asking your provider about safer alternatives if you’re concerned about long-term ecological or household exposure.

Finally, if you’re researching meds or pharmacies online, use caution. Check pharmacy credentials, require a prescription, read privacy policies, and avoid offers that seem too cheap or ask you to skip a doctor. Our guides explain how to verify online pharmacies and spot risky sites.

If you want tailored advice, use your healthcare team. This page helps you ask the right questions and points to practical, safe choices for pregnancy and fertility.