Many women unknowingly expose their unborn babies to harmful substances during the early weeks of pregnancy by using over-the-counter (OTC) medications to treat common ailments like headaches, infections, or colds. These medications, though easily accessible and widely trusted, can pose hidden risks particularly during the first trimester, when the baby’s organs and facial features are developing.
Fatigue, nausea, and mild pain are often mistaken for common illnesses such as malaria or urinary tract infections. This leads many women to self-diagnose and medicate before confirming pregnancy. The danger is that by the time pregnancy is discovered, the crucial window for fetal development may have already passed.
During weeks five to nine, the embryo’s heart, brain, and face begin forming. Exposure to certain substances during this time can disrupt tissue fusion and organ development, leading to complications such as miscarriage or congenital conditions like cleft lip or palate. Even medications widely perceived as safe like painkillers and cold remedies can interfere with vitamin levels or hormonal balance, increasing the risk of developmental abnormalities.
One commonly used drug is paracetamol (acetaminophen), considered safe by many. However, studies have linked its use in pregnancy to higher risks of childhood asthma, persistent wheezing, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), taken less frequently, have also been linked to miscarriages and other complications, especially when used during early pregnancy.
A major problem is the assumption that OTC drugs are always safe because they don’t require a prescription. In reality, their safety depends on factors like dosage, timing, and a woman’s overall health. Many women living in low-resource settings, or those with limited access to healthcare, depend on self-medication or advice from pharmacists and friends rather than seeking medical evaluation.
To avoid such risks, women of childbearing age are advised to take a pregnancy test before using any medication for symptoms like fatigue, fever, or nausea especially if sexually active, even when using contraception. Early antenatal care, including scans and tests, is critical to ensuring the health of both mother and baby. Public education is essential to help women understand the potential dangers of OTC drugs in early pregnancy and to encourage responsible healthcare decisions.
