Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is Benadryl ok to take while pregnant?

Is Benadryl ok to take while pregnant?

Understanding Benadryl Use During Pregnancy
As many expectant mothers navigate the challenges of pregnancy, questions about medication safety often arise. One common inquiry is whether it is safe to take Benadryl, a popular antihistamine, during this critical time. The consensus among medical professionals is generally reassuring.
Safety Profile of Benadryl
Benadryl, known generically as diphenhydramine, is classified as a “Class B” medication by the FDA. This classification indicates that animal studies have not demonstrated any harm to the fetus, suggesting that it is typically safe for use during pregnancy. Many healthcare providers agree that Benadryl can be an effective option for alleviating allergy symptoms, cold-like symptoms, and even morning sickness.
Dr. John Zhang, a noted expert in the field, emphasizes that pregnant individuals can safely use Benadryl to manage allergy symptoms. This is particularly important for those who experience severe discomfort from allergies, as untreated symptoms can lead to increased stress and discomfort during pregnancy.
When to Use Caution
While Benadryl is generally considered safe, there are specific guidelines to follow. For instance, it is advised that pregnant women avoid using Benadryl during the last two weeks of pregnancy due to potential risks, including eye disease in newborns. Therefore, it is crucial for expectant mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any medication, including over-the-counter options like Benadryl.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
Like any medication, Benadryl can have side effects. Commonly reported issues include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. These effects can be particularly concerning for pregnant women, who may already be experiencing fatigue and other physical changes. Therefore, monitoring how one’s body reacts to the medication is essential.
Moreover, while studies indicate that Benadryl does not pose significant risks to unborn babies, it is always wise to approach medication use with caution. Pregnant women should discuss their specific health situations with their doctors to ensure that any treatment plan is tailored to their needs.
Conclusion
In summary, Benadryl can be a safe option for managing allergy symptoms and other conditions during pregnancy, provided it is used judiciously and under medical guidance. As always, the best course of action is to have an open dialogue with healthcare providers to navigate the complexities of medication use during this important time.

Can Benadryl affect pregnancy test results?

Certain other medications have also been associated with false-positive pregnancy test results, including anti-anxiety medications, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, diuretics and even antihistamines, among others.

Can Benadryl affect implantation?

There was a sustained implantation rate of 61.16% with Diphenhydramine use, versus 56.2% without, which did not achieve statistical significance (p=. 16). Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference seen between groups for having a positive pregnancy test (p=.

Is Benadryl risky during pregnancy?

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a safe allergy medication to take during pregnancy. It belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines. Benadryl can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or weakness. These can raise your risk of falling or accidentally hurting yourself during pregnancy.

How can I calm my allergies while pregnant?

Is it safe to take Claritin or other allergy medicines during pregnancy?

  1. Stay away from your triggers. Try not to come in contact with anything that sets off your allergy symptoms.
  2. Use saline nasal spray. Saline is a mix of salt and water.
  3. Try nasal irrigation.
  4. Get active.
  5. Use nasal strips.
  6. Raise the head of your bed.

How much Benadryl can I take while pregnant?

According to the FDA, Benadryl is a Category B medication, meaning that it is considered generally safe for pregnant people to take the recommended adult dose.

Is it safe to take Claritin or Benadryl while pregnant?

Claritin is safe to take during pregnancy and nursing. However, a person should always consult a doctor before taking any medication while pregnant or nursing. While most antihistamines are safe, other medications, such as decongestants, may pose a risk to the pregnant person and fetus.

What can I take to help me sleep while pregnant?

Sleep medicines are advised against using during pregnancy, but there are other medicines and home remedies that can help you sleep. These include over-the-counter medicines (antihistamines), herbal remedies (ginseng, honey, nutmeg), melatonin, and prescription medications.

What medicine to avoid when trying to get pregnant?

Medications to avoid while TTC
Methotrexate, used as chemotherapy and for some types of arthritis. Tetracycline, used for acne or infections. Valproic acid to treat epilepsy.

Is Benadryl or Unisom better during pregnancy?

If you are only having trouble sleeping while pregnant, your doctor might recommend Benadryl. Unisom is likely to be recommended for consistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

What allergy medicine is safe during pregnancy?

Newer antihistamines, such as cetirizine and loratadine, also may be safe. There also is a corticosteroid nasal spray that is safe to use during pregnancy. But one of the most common decongestants, pseudoephedrine, has been linked to a small risk of abdominal wall birth defects.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment