Paracetamol Not Advised For Pregnant Woman Expecting A Baby Boy

When pregnant, paracetamol is pretty much you’re only pain medication option. Ibruprofen’s advised against, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy, as the anti-inflammatory may upset the stomach.

So news that pregnant women should avoid taking paracetamol too often is slightly concerning. But only if you’re expecting a boy.

According to new research by the University of Edinburgh, prolonged use of the pain reliever can be bad news for unborn baby boys. It’s thought to reduce their testosterone production, potentially leading to a whole range of reproductive health problems.

Testosterone, produced in the testicles, is crucial for life-long male health. Reduced exposure to the hormone in the womb has been linked to an increased risk of infertility, testicular cancer and undescended testicles.

The researchers tested the effects of paracetamol on mice carrying grafts of human testicular tissue. They gave the mice three doses of paracetamol over 24 hours or seven days and measured the amount of testosterone produced by the human issue.

While there was no effect on testosterone production after 24 hours of the treatment, after a week of exposure the amount was reduced by almost half.

"This study adds to existing evidence that prolonged use of paracetamol in pregnancy may increase the risk of reproductive disorders in male babies," says Dr Rod Mitchell, from the University of Edinburgh.

"We would advise that pregnant women should follow current guidance that the painkiller be taken at the lowest effect does for the shortest possible time."

The Royal College of Midwives supports this recommendation.

“If the recommended dose doesn't control their symptoms or they are often in pain, they should seek more advice from their midwife or doctor," says Carmel Lloyd, the Royal College of Midwives head of education.

Lloyd says that pregnant women should ideally avoid medicines completely when they’re pregnant, particularly during the first three months. But that’s easier said than done when you’re suffering from acute morning sickness, back ache or flu.

“Ideally, women should avoid taking medicines when they are pregnant, particularly during the first three months,” says Lloyd.

“Minor conditions such as colds or minor aches and pains often do not need treating with medicines. If women feel they need to take medicines such as paracetamol when they are pregnant, they should talk to their midwife or doctor first; they can also get advice from their local pharmacy”.

But before you start panicking, it’s worth knowing that there are some natural pain relief methods, such as arnica, that you can try while pregnant. They may not be as effective as paracetamol or ibruprofen but should help lessen your discomfort slightly.

Can you suggest any natural pain relief methods that work for you? Let us know in the comments.

[Pregnant? Steer Clear Of Organic Milk – It Could Post A Risk To Your Unborn Baby]

[Calpol’s FREE On The NHS – But It’s All Part Of A Hush Hush Scheme]