Medication Exposure
What if I have been exposed to a medication or chemical during my pregnancy?
Certain medications or chemicals may be associated with an increased risk
of congenital birth defects and/or complications in the neonatal period. The
risks will depend on the medication and/or chemical and the gestational age
when the exposure occurred.
If you are taking a medication and become pregnant, we recommend that
you contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine if the
medication is safe to take in pregnancy. You should not stop taking a medication
unless advised to do so by your healthcare provider. Many times it is safer for
a pregnant woman to continue the medication during her pregnancy than for her
to stop the necessary medical treatment. If you are considering a pregnancy and
taking a medication, we recommend that you contact your healthcare provider
to discuss if you should continue that medication or switch to a different
medication that would be safer in pregnancy. Unfortunately, there is very
limited information on the safety of use during pregnancy for over 90% of
prescription medications.
The Organization of Teratology Information Specialists provides helpful
information for patients concerned about exposure to medications or chemicals
during their pregnancy. Click on the link provided to go to their website
www.otispregnancy.org.
You can also reach them by calling 800-532-3749.
Genetic counseling is available to women who have been exposed to certain
medications during pregnancy. Please contact your healthcare provider if you
are concerned about any medications or chemicals you may have been exposed to
during your pregnancy.
Click here for more information.