As one of the most widely used drugs in the Western world, we all have a tendency to discount the side effects of over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). A 2003 study by the British Medical Journal found that taking an NSAID around the time of conception, may increase the risk of miscarriage by up to 80%.
As mentioned in my article on Arthritis options, the class of drugs labeled NSAIDs includes aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and a few other pharmaceutical level drugs. These are common drugs, and they can be found in most medicine cabinets. For years we have heard about the negative effects these medications may have on our kidneys and intestinal tract, but now studies are showing more side effects. The main reason for this lack of research is a lack of test subjects. It is hard enough to determine when a woman is going to get pregnant, and even harder to convince a pregnant woman to be a part of a study that may cause a miscarriage.
This study included 1,055 women who were interviewed shortly after their pregnancy was confirmed. All of the women were asked about their use of NSAIDs, aspirin, and acetaminophen during their pregnancy. The results were that 53 women reported using NSAIDs, and another 22 used aspirin. After making adjustments to all of the data, including any history of prior miscarriages, “the used of NSAIDs during pregnancy increased the risk of miscarriage by 80%.” The risk of miscarriage was 5.6 times greater than normal when NSAIDs were taken around the time of conception, and 8.1 times greater when taken for longer than a week. When aspirin was taken around the time of conception, the risk of miscarriage was 4.3 times greater than normal.
Further research needs to be done to confirm these studies, but if they have similar results, then this could mean big changes in the treatment of pregnant women with aches and pains.
In the mean time a natural means of alleviating aches and pains seems to be the best option. Ice is a great alternative for sore muscles and joints in the body due to carrying extra weight from the pregnancy. Massage, physical therapy, and chiropractic medicine are all valid options as well, as long as the provider is aware of the pregnancy. Lastly, a good, mild exercise routine which may include walking and pool therapy will help the expectant mother’s body stay in shape, and accommodate for the added weight associated with pregnancy.