Can you do harm to a fetus before you know you're pregnant by drinking caffeine, taking OTC medications, etc?

Answer 1

I always see articles about this in baby magazines. The answer is always the same - No, you cannot harm your baby by taking these things before you know your pregnant. The most important thing is you establish that youre pregnant quickly (like after your first missed period) and cease from taking these substances. Caffeine is still ok in pregnancy, but only in small amounts - i only have 1 cup of tea a day, and ive cut coke and coffee out of my diet completely.

Answer 2

caffeine, no, but don't drink more than a cup or two a day
most otc meds are fine - even some pain killers are not harmful if you must take them - but check with your OG/GYN to be sure if you are panicked - the fetus is like a parasite and will take what it needs from your body but is also very protected by the placenta and your blood - I didn't take ibruprofen during pregnancy but tylenol was o.k. - I wouldn't take NYquil but a simpler cold medicine is probably o.k. Please just check with a midwife if you are concerned

Answer 3

The embryo-fetus is most vulnerable during the first trimester, which is unfortunately when it is most likely to get damaged, as many women do not even know they are pregnant. Caffeine in moderation is not likely to really harm a baby, and most OTC medications taken infrequently likely did not harm your baby either.

Alcohol in excess, regular cigarette smoking, and many illegal drugs taken in large quantities are particularly dangerous, as are many prescription medications.

Answer 4

I don't believe so because I was a regular party animal and drank and smoked all the time! I was on nerve pain medication and took ibuprofen before I found out I was pregnant. My baby's as healthy as can be, so I think you'd be fine.

Once you find out, though, stop everything immediately!!

Good luck!

Answer 5

It depends. If you are pregnant stop all medications until you consult the doctor. Unless you are a heavy coffee drinker I don't see the caffeine causing you any problems. But; once pregnant your body changes will let you know.

Answer 6

depends on the exact meds you took...I am 23 weeks and I drink 1 cup of coffee a day by NEED! :) my dr said I could actually safely drink 2 a daybut I am being as good as I can...also I had a scare in my first week I took diet pills!! I freaked out when I found out I was preg already and dr said baby was not affected due to us not shareing blood through cord yet,you have a couple like 2<<< weeks untill your attached in that way then be way careful! Good luck~

Answer 7

yes, but not likely, I only have one bad habit, caffeine, I did not drink cofee or tea while pregnant but I did drink soda's atleast one a day (i know my bad) but hey my baby is fine and healthy no problems, I did take like Advil and Tylenol PM before I knew i was preg. and my Dr. said dont worry much about it now, just dont do it anymore.

You and your baby will be fine if you just stop now

Answer 8

You have about a three month window. In the first three months it would really take a lot to hurt the child. After that, I wouldn't suggest using any of the caffeine, or drugs, or alcohol. Don't worry, that baby is safe and sourrounded by lots of barriers to keep it safe.

Answer 9

its not likely, unless we are talking serious abuse of these substances. Many women do things they regret before they know they are pregnant, and then go on to deliver normal healthy babies. The most important thing is to stop it once you find out you are pregnant and get good prenatal care. Good luck

Answer 10

no usually the fetus is not harmed by a mothers early bad habits...it is only through continued bad behavior like drinking or smoking that a baby is harmed...i hope this helps