Pregnancy Medication Safety: What You Really Need to Know About OTC Drugs
When Sarah found out she was pregnant with her second child, she thought she knew the drill. She’d been through this before. But at her first prenatal appointment, her doctor asked about all her medications—including over-the-counter ones. Sarah rattled off her daily routine: prenatal vitamin, allergy medication, occasional ibuprofen for headaches, antacids for heartburn, and her asthma inhaler. Her doctor stopped her at ibuprofen. “We need to switch you off that immediately,” she said. Sarah was confused—she’d taken it during her first pregnancy without issue. What she didn’t know was that new research had emerged about NSAIDs after 20 weeks of pregnancy, and the safety guidelines had changed. Medication safety during pregnancy is one of the most confusing aspects of prenatal care. Guidelines change as new research emerges, the same medication might be safe in one trimester but risky in another, and the line between “safe” and “avoid” isn’t always clear. Understanding Pregnancy Safety Categories For decades, the FDA used a letter-based system (A, B, C, D, X) to categorize medication safety during pregnancy. In 2015, the FDA replaced this system with narrative summaries that provide more detailed risk information and context about timing. Medications to Absolutely Avoid During Pregnancy Common OTC Medications: What’s Safe For Pain and Fever: For Colds and Allergies: For Heartburn: For Constipation: What About Zicam? Zicam Nasal Products: Zicam Oral Products (Lozenges): Better alternatives: Prescription Medications Safe Antibiotics: Asthma Medications: Antidepressants: Thyroid Medications: Timing Matters: Risk by Trimester First Trimester (Weeks 1-12): Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27): Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40): Making Smart Decisions What If You Took Something Before Knowing You Were Pregnant? Don’t panic. The “all-or-nothing” principle applies very early in pregnancy. Tell your provider at your first visit—many exposures cause no problems. Resources for Checking Safety MotherToBaby: The Bottom Line At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we’re here to answer your medication questions at every stage of pregnancy. Whether you’re dealing with a cold, managing a chronic condition, or just want to double-check if something’s safe, we’re a phone call away. Schedule your prenatal consultation today and get personalized guidance on medication safety throughout your pregnancy. References:
Can I Take Zicam While Pregnant? Your Guide to Safe Cold Relief This Winter
Lauren stood in the pharmacy aisle at 11 PM, seven months pregnant and desperate for relief. Her head throbbed, her nose was completely blocked, and she’d been awake for three nights straight. She reached for the Zicam she’d always used before pregnancy, then pulled out her phone to search “can I take Zicam while pregnant?” The results were confusing and contradictory. Exhausted and frustrated, she left empty-handed, still suffering. If you’re pregnant and fighting a winter cold, you’re probably discovering that your usual go-to remedies are suddenly off-limits or questionable. With your immune system naturally suppressed to protect your growing baby, you’re more vulnerable to catching every bug that goes around. Understanding which medications are safe can help you find relief without the worry.Is Zicam Safe During Pregnancy? The short answer is: it depends on which Zicam product you’re considering. Zicam products contain zinc, an essential mineral that’s generally considered safe during pregnancy in appropriate amounts. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), zinc is important for fetal development, and many prenatal vitamins include it. However, not all Zicam formulations are created equal: Understanding Cold Remedies by Trimester Your provider’s recommendations may vary depending on how far along you are: Safe Cold Relief Options for Pregnancy Here are evidence-based remedies that most providers consider safe: For Congestion: For Cough: For Fever and Body Aches: For Sore Throat: What to Avoid During Pregnancy These common cold remedies should be avoided: NSAIDs:Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can cause complications, especially after 20 weeks of pregnancy. They’ve been linked to low amniotic fluid and potential heart problems in the baby. Aspirin:Regular use of aspirin should be avoided unless specifically prescribed by your provider for certain pregnancy complications. Multi-Symptom Formulations:Products like NyQuil or Theraflu often contain multiple active ingredients, including ones to avoid during pregnancy. They may also contain alcohol. Stick to single-ingredient products approved by your provider. Herbal Supplements:“Natural” doesn’t mean safe during pregnancy. Many herbs can trigger contractions or cause other complications. Avoid echinacea, goldenseal, and other immune-boosting herbs without medical approval. Phenylephrine:This decongestant found in many cold medicines has questionable effectiveness and safety data during pregnancy. Natural Immunity Boosters That Actually Work Prevention is always better than treatment: Hydration:Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily. Proper hydration helps thin mucus, supports immune function, and keeps your respiratory system functioning optimally. Add lemon or cucumber for flavor if plain water is unappealing. Quality Sleep:Aim for eight to ten hours nightly. Your immune system does much of its repair work during sleep. If nighttime sleep is disrupted, take short naps during the day. Vitamin C:Get it from food sources like oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. While vitamin C won’t prevent colds, it may reduce duration and severity. Vitamin D:Many pregnant women are deficient in vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in immune function. Ask your provider about testing and supplementation. Prenatal Vitamins:Take them consistently. They provide immune-supporting nutrients like zinc, vitamin C, iron, and folate. Hand Hygiene:Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after being in public spaces. Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available. Avoid Sick People:This sounds obvious, but don’t feel guilty about skipping gatherings or asking sick visitors to reschedule. Your health and your baby’s wellbeing come first. When to Call Your Healthcare Provider Most colds resolve on their own within seven to ten days, but contact your provider if you experience: These symptoms could indicate flu, strep throat, pneumonia, sinus infection, or other conditions requiring prescription treatment. The Importance of Flu and COVID-19 Vaccination The single most effective way to prevent serious illness during pregnancy is vaccination: Flu Shot:Safe during any trimester, the flu vaccine protects both you and your baby. Pregnant women who get the flu are at higher risk for hospitalization and complications. Antibodies you develop are passed to your baby, providing protection for their first several months of life. COVID-19 Vaccine:Current CDC recommendations support COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. Pregnant women who contract COVID-19 are at increased risk for severe illness, preterm birth, and other complications. Tdap Vaccine:Given between 27 and 36 weeks, this vaccine protects your baby from whooping cough, which can be deadly for newborns. Creating Your Cold-Season Action Plan Start the new year with a prevention strategy: Get Personalized Guidance Every pregnancy is unique, and your health history may affect which cold remedies are safe for you. Conditions like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or a history of preterm labor can influence your provider’s recommendations. Don’t suffer through a cold in silence or second-guess yourself in the pharmacy aisle. At Women’s Integrated Healthcare, we’re here to answer your medication safety questions and provide clear, evidence-based guidance tailored to your pregnancy. Whether you’re dealing with a winter cold right now or want to discuss prevention strategies, our team is ready to support you through every season of your pregnancy journey. Schedule a consultation today and start the new year with a clear plan for staying healthy and safe. References: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (n.d.). Over-the-Counter Medications and Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Medications and Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Zinc Supplementation During Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov
When to Take a Pregnancy Test: Signs, Timing, and Next Steps
Emma had just returned from a long business trip, juggling meetings, deadlines, and travel stress. Back home, she noticed her routine was slightly off. Her period hadn’t arrived, and she felt more tired than usual. She wondered: Am I pregnant or just exhausted from work? Knowing when and how to take a pregnancy test can make all the difference. Acting at the right time, recognizing subtle signs, and accessing trusted guidance helps you move forward confidently. Early Signs of Pregnancy While each woman’s experience is unique, some early indicators are common: Recognizing these signs early, like Emma did, can help you take the next step with confidence. Timing Your Test for Accuracy Testing too early can produce false negatives. Waiting a few days after a missed period and/or confirming with a professional ensures accuracy. Next Steps After a Positive Test Reverse Pregnancy Calculator: Personalized Guidance Emma used a Reverse Pregnancy Calculator to better understand her timing, estimate conception dates, and track early milestones. It’s a simple tool designed to provide clarity and support, so you can take the next step with confidence. Try the Pregnancy Calculator Now Conclusion Whether you’re juggling a busy career, travel, or life’s daily demands, understanding your body’s signals is critical. Like Emma, noticing early signs and accessing expert guidance ensures you can act with confidence. Women’s Integrated Health is here to guide you every step of the way, from testing to your first prenatal visit. Schedule Your Appointment.
Your Breech Baby
Our Southlake, Fort Worth ObGyns explain what happens when you carry a breech baby You’re ready to give birth, and you feel like you’re prepared — until your ObGyn tells you that you have a breech baby. For a vaginal birth, the baby is ideally positioned head down, but 3 to 4 percent of pregnancies involve a breech baby. During the last weeks of pregnancy, if the baby is positioned buttocks, feet or both first instead of head down, we call it a breech presentation. Breech Positions Defined Every breech baby doesn’t present in the same position. Your breech baby may be in one of three breech positions. Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns may refer to your breech baby in these ways. When the baby presents bottom down first and has bent knees, this is a complete breech. If the baby stretches his or her legs out toward the head, we call it a frank breech. When the baby is positioned with one leg hanging down, we call it a footling or incomplete breech. Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns may discover your breech presentation during a pelvic examination or when they are feeling your belly. If so, they will order an ultrasound to confirm their suspicions. Can My Breech Baby Be Repositioned? We might be able to turn a breech baby using external cephalic version, or turning the baby. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, more than 50 percent of the time, turning a breech baby baby works; however, some babies may turn back into the breech position after the procedure. If you still have a breech position after week 36, we may try to turn the baby. This procedure should be done where a delivery room is easily accessible in the rare case that any problems occur. During the procedure, your ObGyn will use her hands to apply firm pressure to the abdomen to get the baby to rotate to a head-down position. During this process, we use an ultrasound to guide us, and we monitor the baby’s heart. Not every mother with a breech baby will qualify to have an external cephalic version. We do not attempt this with a mother carrying multiples. What Are My Delivery Options for a Breech Baby? If your baby has not turned head down, you will probably need a C-section. This is usually the safest way to deliver a breech baby for the sake of both mother and baby. Talk to our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns if you have concerns about a C-section. We are highly experienced in performing the procedure. For more information about pregnancy and birth, contact us for an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding
We answer some of your most-common questions about breastfeeding. No doubt, you’ve heard many opinions about breastfeeding through the years, but how is breastfeeding actually beneficial for mom and baby? Here are a few of the questions we hear most frequently from new moms when it comes to breastfeeding. Why is Breastfeeding Important? Your breast milk is truly special because it contains the perfect amount of minerals, sugar, protein and water that a baby needs for growth and development. It also contains DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and other fatty acids that researchers believe are important for your baby’s brain and eyes as they develop. How Long Should I Breastfeed? Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns recommend that mothers breastfeed their babies during the first six months of life. Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and baby. However, even if you are only able to breastfeed for a short period of time, you will provide healthy benefits to your baby. What Are The Benefits of Breastfeeding? The CDC states that infants who are breastfed have a lower risk of several health issues including: Asthma Obesity Type 1 diabetes Ear infections Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Gastrointestinal infections (diarrhea/vomiting) While mothers who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing: Breast cancer Ovarian cancer Type 2 diabetes High blood pressure When Will My Milk Come In? Milk production begins in the second trimester of pregnancy. Your body begins making colostrum, a special milk that’s full of essential nutrients and is easy for newborns to digest. Your milk supply will increase about 30 to 40 hours after you’ve delivered your placenta. By then, the change in your hormones has signaled to your body that it’s time to feed your baby. Breastfeeding Benefits Recap Breastfeeding is beneficial for both mother and baby. Our Southlake and Fort Worth ObGyns know that you may have questions and concerns, and we’re here to help. We deliver babies at Baylor Regional Medical Center at Grapevine, which offers breastfeeding classes to help moms-to-be prepare. La Leche League is also a good resource.
An update on COVID-19 (Coronavirus) from The Providers of Women’s Integrated Healthcare, P.A.
March 12, 2020 COVID-19 Screening Information First and foremost we wish to keep everyone as safe as possible, this includes patients and staff. We will be asking all patients the following questions in an effort to help determine whether you should be seen in our office. We ask that if you answer yes to any of the questions that you contact your PCP to be evaluated, if you do not have a PCP then you should visit an urgent care. Should you arrive to our office and be found to meet any of these criteria, you will be immediately rescheduled so that we do not expose other patients and staff. Please remember that our pregnant patients are at increased risk of developing infections. 1. Are you having flu-like symptoms; fever, or respiratory symptoms such as cough, or shortness of breath? 2. Have you traveled to an affected geographic area within 14 days of symptom onset? 3. Have you been in close contact with someone confirmed or being evaluated for COVID-19? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you will need to be rescheduled 14 days out from the date of symptoms or from your return home from travel. You can call our office at 817-416-2229 to have your appointment rescheduled. Thank you for your understanding, The Providers of Women’s Integrated Healthcare, P.A.
The First Signs Of Pregnancy
How to Know When You’re Pregnant What happens when your period doesn’t show up? From the first period to menopause, women are considered in their childbearing years. It’s important that women know the signs of pregnancy so they can know when they may be pregnant. To understand why we experience symptoms of pregnancy, it may help to understand where the symptoms come from. Signs of Pregnancy: What’s Happening In The Body? During ovulation, an egg is released into the fallopian tube. If the egg becomes fertilized, it will move out of the fallopian tube and start reproducing cells for 2-3 days. Then it will try to attach to the uterine wall, which can take 3-4 days. This is the beginning of pregnancy, also known as the gestational period. By this point, the woman’s body is already experiencing an increase in hormone levels. The most well-known sign of pregnancy is a late/missed menstrual cycle. The most common first sign is spotting and light cramps as implantation occurs. According to an American Pregnancy Association study, only 3% recognized spotting as their first sign, while 29% said it was a late/missed menstrual cycle. Another common sign of pregnancy is morning sickness. Morning sickness, or nausea, can happen during the day and night, and doesn’t always include vomiting. Twenty five percent of women reported nausea as the first sign they were pregnant. Another common symptom is breast tenderness or changes. Seventeen percent of women reported changes in their breasts within the first week of pregnancy. Other changes include size and darkening around the areolas as hormones increase. Additional Possible Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy Moodiness Bloating Increased urination Food aversion or cravings Fatigue Lower backaches Headaches Heartburn High blood pressure Constipation Nasal congestion It is important to note that many signs of pregnancy depend on a woman’s own body. Some women report experiencing multiple signs within the first week while others say they didn’t experience any for the first few weeks. Also, it’s obvious that these possible symptoms are common side effects of other health situations, so taking a pregnancy test is key to knowing the truth. When to Take a Pregnancy Test If you find yourself experiencing these signs of pregnancy and believe you’re pregnant, take a pregnancy test. Tests are available at local drug stores. The recommended time to take a pregnancy test is 1-2 weeks after your missed period. It’s typical to go to the doctor eight weeks after your last menstrual cycle, but if you think you’re pregnant, contact your physician right away to make an appointment. We look forward to sharing this journey with you!
Understanding Braxton Hicks Contractions
What to know about Braxton Hicks contractions Braxton Hicks contractions are often called false labor, but our Grapevine and Fort Worth obgyns understand that they can feel very real. Usually, women experience these pains during the third trimester, but sometimes they occur during the second trimester. They are a normal part of pregnancy, but they can be uncomfortable and cause concern because you may think you are in true labor. Three questions you may have about Braxton Hicks contractions The more you know, the less you will worry if and when you experience your first Braxton Hicks contractions. Here are three questions patients ask our Grapevine and Fort Worth obgyns about these contractions. What causes Braxton Hicks contractions? Physicians and researchers don’t know the exact cause, but one theory is that they occur because the uterus is expanding and the cervix is relaxing as the body prepares for true labor. Some people call it practice labor. Certain things can trigger these contractions such as a full bladder, dehydration, touching the belly and times when the mother and/or the baby are active. Women often notice these pains more often at the end of the day and also after sex. What do these false labor pains feel like? Braxton Hicks contractions are intermittent pains that cause the abdomen to tighten. They can last anywhere from a few seconds to one or two minutes at a time. How do I know if the contractions are Braxton Hicks or the beginning of labor? There are several differences between false labor and true labor. Braxton Hicks contractions usually don’t get stronger or closer together over time, but true labor contractions do. False labor pains can sometimes be alleviated or stopped by changing position, walking or resting. However, true labor pains cannot. Most false contractions only cause abdominal pain, but real labor pains can cause pelvic pressure and pain in the back, lower abdomen, and even the thighs. If you have any doubts about whether your contractions are Braxton Hicks or true labor, do not hesitate to call us. Our compassionate and experienced Grapevine and Fort Worth obgyns are here to help you have an informed, healthy pregnancy, labor and delivery. Contact us today for an appointment.
Obgyn Care in the DFW Area
High-quality obgyn care in the DFW area that’s convenient and close to home Are you looking for high-quality obgyn care in the DFW area? Our Fort Worth and Southlake obgyns work with women from adolescence to menopause and beyond to provide outstanding obstetrics and gynecology services. As an added bonus, every obgyn in our practice is a woman. Our obgyn care in the DFW area offers user-friendly locations Why fight the Dallas traffic when you can find first-rate obgyn care in the DFW area closer to your neighborhood? Our Fort Worth and Southlake offices are close to several cities and towns in the Metroplex area. The locations are easily accessible with ample parking. State-of-the-art gynecology and gynecological surgery services Good health begins with preventive care. Our physicians form a valuable relationship with patients, especially during the annual well woman exam. When problems occur, and you need obgyn care in the DFW area, there’s no need to venture far from home. With our Fort Worth and Grapevine obgyns, you’re in experienced, trained hands. From endometriosis and PCOS, to urinary incontinence and recurrent UTIs, our physicians and staff provide thoughtful and thorough treatment and diagnosis. If you need surgery, rest assured that our obgyns are trained in the most up-to-date gynecological surgery techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic surgery. Our surgeons perform hysterectomies, endometriosis surgery, surgery for urinary incontinence and more. Obstetrics and midwifery services for routine and high-risk pregnancies If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, and considering obgyn care in the DFW area, our offices offer everything you need. Our experienced obstetricians care for high-risk and routine pregnancies. Our midwifery services provide another pregnancy care option for patients. From preconception counseling and fertility testing, to pregnancy office visits and labor management, we’ve got you covered. Patients at our Fort Worth office deliver at Fort Worth Medical Center Fort Worth. These locations offer nearby, expert care, making for a smooth trip to the hospital on the big day. Our Fort Worth and Southlake obgyns prove that excellent obgyn care in the DFW area is not limited to the city of Dallas. Our all-female physicians are close to your neighborhood, ready to provide you with the comprehensive healthcare you need. Contact us for an appointment.
Bonding with Your Baby in the NICU
Five tips for bonding with your baby in the NICU Our Grapevine obgyns want you to know more about bonding with your baby in the NICU. After your delivery, your baby may need to go to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for reasons that include preterm birth or problems that occur in the hours or days after your baby is born. Five ideas for bonding with your baby in the NICU When you’re pregnant, you envision bonding with your baby in your hospital room. Bonding with your baby in the NICU may not be what you hoped for, but it can be a special time for both you and your baby. Here are five tips from our Grapevine obgyns to help you bond with your baby if a NICU stay is required. 1. Visit the NICU and get to know the staff. The NICU staff members are knowledgeable and always willing to answer questions about equipment and treatment plans. The more you visit, the more comfortable you will be in the NICU. 2. Hold or touch your baby if possible. Holding your baby is one way of bonding with your baby in the NICU, but there are other ways. Gently stroke your baby’s skin, maintain eye contact and sing or talk to your baby. It may be possible for you to engage in kangaroo care by maintaining skin-to-skin contact with your baby. 3. Feed your baby. Some babies in the NICU can be breastfed and others can be bottle-fed with your pumped breast milk. You can also pump breast milk and save it for your baby. Talk to the NICU staff about feeding and bonding with your baby in the NICU. 4. Bring some personal items in for your baby. You may be able to place a picture or stuffed animal outside of your baby’s incubator. Some mothers wear an item of clothing so that it bears their unique scent, and then they place it near the baby. 5. Take care of yourself. It’s easy to forget about self-care when you are concerned about your baby, but bonding with your baby in the NICU is best when you are healthy and rested. Our Grapevine obgyns care for mothers. We know that part of that process includes reassuring and advising mothers about their babies. For compassionate, expert care, contact us.
