Prescription opioids are a type of pain medication that can be used to help manage pain. However, these medications can be addictive and cause dependence.
If you are pregnant and are taking prescription opioids, it is essential to understand the risks associated with their use.
What are prescription opioids?
Prescription opioids are a type of medication used to manage pain. These drugs work by binding to receptors in the brain and blocking the transmission of pain signals. Opioids can be used to manage both acute pain, such as pain following surgery or an injury, and chronic pain, such as pain associated with cancer.
Examples of prescription opioids include:
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
- Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
- Meperidine (Demerol)
- Methadone
- Morphine
- Oxycodone (OxyContin)
- Oxymorphone (Opana)
What are the risks of taking prescription opioids during pregnancy?
Taking prescription opioids during pregnancy can pose a risk to both the mother and the baby. Some of the risks associated with prescription opioids during pregnancy include:
- Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS): When a baby is exposed to opioids in the womb, they can become dependent on the drug. After birth, the baby may experience withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, irritability, and poor feeding.
- Premature birth: Women who take prescription opioids during pregnancy are at an increased risk of giving birth prematurely.
- Birth defects: There is some evidence to suggest that prescription opioids may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly when taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.
- Stillbirth: Women who take prescription opioids during pregnancy may be at an increased risk of stillbirth.
- Maternal overdose: Taking prescription opioids during pregnancy can increase the risk of overdose for the mother.
What are the alternatives to prescription opioids during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant and experiencing pain, there are several alternatives to prescription opioids that you can consider:
- Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a pain reliever that is considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, it is important to take the medication as directed and not exceed the recommended dose.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help manage pain associated with pregnancy, such as back pain and pelvic pain.
- Chiropractic care: Chiropractic care can also help manage pain associated with pregnancy.
- Massage therapy: Massage therapy can help reduce stress and relieve pain during pregnancy.
- Mind-body therapies: Mind-body therapies such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage pain and reduce stress during pregnancy.
What should you do if you are taking prescription opioids and are pregnant?
If you are taking prescription opioids and are pregnant, it is essential to speak with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of continuing to take these medications. Your healthcare provider may recommend tapering off the medication slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms or switching to a safer alternative.
It is also essential to be honest with your healthcare provider about your medication use. Your healthcare provider can work with you to develop a treatment plan that is safe for you and your baby.
In summary, prescription opioids can pose a risk to both the mother and the baby during pregnancy. It is essential to speak with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking these medications during pregnancy and to consider safer alternatives to manage pain. If you are taking prescription opioids and are pregnant, it is important to be honest with your healthcare provider about your medication use and to work together to develop a safe and effective treatment plan.