Can you take ibuprofen while pregnant?
Many cold-and-flu tablets quietly contain ibuprofen — which isn’t recommended in pregnancy.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sterling, obstetrician ·
The short answer
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs (like naproxen and high-dose aspirin) are generally not recommended in pregnancy unless a doctor prescribes them, and especially not from 20 weeks. Ask your pharmacist, midwife or doctor which painkiller is right for you.
Why it matters
From around 20 weeks, NSAIDs can affect the baby’s kidneys and lead to low amniotic fluid; the FDA added a warning about this in 2020.
Later in pregnancy (around 30 weeks and beyond), NSAIDs can cause a vital blood vessel in the baby’s heart — the ductus arteriosus — to close too early.
NSAIDs hide in combination products: cold and flu remedies, period-pain tablets and some migraine treatments. Always read the active ingredients.
Note: low-dose aspirin is sometimes prescribed in pregnancy to lower the risk of pre-eclampsia. That’s a medical decision — don’t start or stop it on your own.
What to do
- Read the active ingredients on every painkiller and cold remedy.
- Ask a pharmacist which painkiller suits you — paracetamol (acetaminophen) is usually suggested first, at the lowest dose for the shortest time.
- Tell anyone prescribing you medicine that you’re pregnant.
- Check ibuprofen gels too: ask before using them regularly.
Common questions
I took ibuprofen before I knew I was pregnant. Is my baby OK?
A few doses early in pregnancy are unlikely to cause harm, but mention it to your midwife or doctor so they can reassure you.
What painkiller can I take while pregnant?
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is usually the first option. Use the lowest dose that works for the shortest time, and check with your pharmacist, midwife or doctor.
Sources
- FDA — Avoid NSAIDs at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy
- UK Teratology Information Service — Ibuprofen in pregnancy
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sterling, obstetrician, on against the sources above. Guidance can differ between countries — always follow the advice of your own midwife, doctor or pharmacist. Medical disclaimer.
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