Pain medication during pregnancy

It is common for  women of childbearing age to use prescription pain medications. However taking these medications during pregnancy increases your risk of having a child with birth defects.

Opioid based ( narcotics) pain medication such as codeine , morphine,oxycodone or hydrocodone are used to treat moderate to severe pain. Most women are not aware that these medications can cause serious birth defects of the brain, spine or heart. They also increase your risk of premature labor. Use of these medications  during pregnancy can cause babies to suffer withdrawal symptoms. This condition is known as neonatal abstinence syndrome.

Since about half of all pregnancies are not planned, it is essential that  women on opioid based pain medication to use an effective form of birth control. If you decide to get pregnant , let your health care provider know. He will switch the medication to a safer form.