Aspirin during pregnancy may carry certain risks, particularly when taken at regular or high doses. These risks can depend on the dose, stage of pregnancy, and reason for use.
However, low-dose aspirin may be recommended for certain medical reasons during pregnancy. The usual dose is 81 mg per day and may be prescribed by an OB-GYN to help prevent preeclampsia in people who are at increased risk.
Aspirin should only be taken during pregnancy under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Regular prenatal care can help determine whether it is appropriate based on the pregnant person's overall health and risk factors for preeclampsia.
Baby aspirin during pregnancy
When low-dose aspirin, sometimes called “baby aspirin,” is used during pregnancy to help prevent preeclampsia, the usual dose in the United States is 81 mg once daily.
According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, low-dose aspirin should be started after 12 weeks of pregnancy in people who are at high risk for preeclampsia. ACOG and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine recommend starting it between 12 and 28 weeks, ideally before 16 weeks, and continuing it daily until delivery.
It should only be taken under the guidance of an OB-GYN or other healthcare provider.
When is aspirin recommended during pregnancy?
Low-dose aspirin during pregnancy may be recommended by an OB-GYN or certified nurse-midwife (CNM) to help prevent preeclampsia in pregnant people who are at high risk.
In these cases, aspirin is generally started between 12 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, ideally before 16 weeks, and continued until delivery.
It may also be recommended for pregnant people who have more than one moderate risk factor for preeclampsia, such as being 35 or older, being pregnant for the first time, having a prepregnancy BMI over 30, or having a family history of preeclampsia.
Is aspirin safe during pregnancy?
Low-dose aspirin may be safely used during pregnancy to help prevent preeclampsia when it is medically indicated and taken under the guidance of an OB-GYN or other healthcare provider.
Aspirin should not be taken during pregnancy without medical guidance. The recommended dose and timing depend on the reason for treatment and the pregnant person's individual risk factors.
Pain relievers during pregnancy
For fever or pain during pregnancy, acetaminophen is generally the preferred medication.
However, it is important to contact the OB-GYN or other healthcare provider managing prenatal care before taking medication to make sure it is appropriate and to determine the correct dose during pregnancy.
Acetaminophen should be taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary period, as directed by a healthcare provider. Read more about taking Tylenol while pregnant.
Home remedies for pain and fever during pregnancy
Some simple measures may help relieve fever or pain during pregnancy:
- Fever: get plenty of rest, drink enough fluids, wear lightweight clothing, and stay in a cool, well-ventilated room.
- Pain: rest and other non-drug measures may help, depending on the cause. Chamomile tea or lavender aromatherapy may have a calming effect, but herbal products should be discussed with an OB-GYN before use during pregnancy.
Contact an OB-GYN if pain or fever is severe, persistent, or worsening so the cause can be evaluated and appropriate treatment recommended.