The term drugs covers a broad range of natural and man-made substances, such as:
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- medicines that your doctor has prescribed
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- medicines you buy at your local chemist or supermarket, e.g. cough mixture,
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- natural supplements you buy at a health food shop, e.g. herbs, vitamins
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- recreational drugs, e.g. marijuana, ecstasy
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- traditional herbal medicines.
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Prescribed medicines and natural supplements
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Not all medicinal substances are safe during pregnancy, even if they are prescribed or natural. If you are taking prescription drugs you can check their suitability with your doctor. If you are currently taking any products from the chemist or supermarket or any natural supplements, ask your doctor or pharmacist if they are suitable to take during pregnancy. Alternatively contact the Royal Women's Hospital Drug Information Service.
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Alcohol
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You should limit your intake of alcohol if you are planning to become pregnant. Large amounts of alcohol, particularly in the first few months of pregnancy, can lead to physical or mental abnormalities in the baby as well as growth retardation. Alcohol intake can also affect men's sperm counts.
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Cigarettes
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Smoking cigarettes has been proven to be harmful to the unborn baby. Smoking is associated with infertility in both men and women and increased chances of miscarriage. Smoking in pregnancy also affects the size and the long-term health of the baby. If you or your partner smoke, give up before attempting to get pregnant. For information and support call the Quitline.
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Recreational and illegal drugs
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If you are planning to get pregnant you should avoid recreational drugs, as they can be harmful to you and the baby. Drugs such as marijuana and anabolic steroids may also affect men's sex drive and sperm counts.
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For more information contact the Royal Women's Hospital Drug Information Service.
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Important things to remember
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- If you have been trying to become pregnant for more than a year you can visit a fertility specialist.
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- As women get older the chances of becoming pregnant are gradually reduced.
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- If you are trying to become pregnant you should already be considering health, diet and lifestyle issues.
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- Folate is especially important in the preconception period and for the first three months of pregnancy to reduce the baby's risk of spina bifida.
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- Vitamin A can be harmful to a developing baby.
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- Listeria is a bacteria that can contaminate certain food and if ingested it can be extremely harmful during pregnancy.
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- You should visit your doctor before you become pregnant and discuss medical conditions and your current state of immunisation.
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Further information and contacts
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Royal Women's Hospital Drug Information Service
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Locked Bag 300
Grattan St & Flemington Rd
Parkville VIC 3052
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Tel: (03) 8345 2000
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Quitline
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Tel: 13 78 48
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Web: http://www.quit.org.au
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Disclaimer
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The Royal Women’s Hospital does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided in this fact sheet or incorporated into it by reference. We provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.
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Last update Jan 2008
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