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Beyond Pain Relief
Drugs Used in Pregnancy, Labor and Delivery
By Kelly Burgess
Dr. Robert Blaskiewicz, professor of obstetrics, gynecology and women's health at Saint Louis University, estimates that his facility does about 2,500 deliveries a year. In that time, they see every type of scenario that can ever be imagined in the area of labor and delivery. And that's what has taught him that every woman is different, every labor is unique and the best patient is one that is informed about what to expect and keeps her options open.
"Most people are very reasonable in their approach to labor, and they understand that their labor may not go according to plan," says Dr. Blaskiewicz. "Ideally you'll never have to use any medications, but it's good to know and convey that there are a lot of different options."
While most people think of drugs and pregnancy only in the context of pain relief, Dr. Blaskiewicz points out that there are other situations during pregnancy when a woman may be put on medication. Below is a list of some conditions that may require the use of drugs and what a doctor may prescribe:
Severe Nausea (also known as hyperemesis gravidarum): This is estimated to affect up to 2 percent of pregnant women. Medications that can be prescribed include the following:
Zofran: This is an antiemetic that is effective against vomiting and nausea. Although it's a newer drug, preliminary studies indicate that it causes no harm to either Mother or Baby.
Reglan: Used more often in treating GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), this is also effective in many cases and is considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Benedictin: This drug was taken off the market in 1983 after lawsuits claimed it caused birth defects; however, these were later found to have no validity. Dr. Blaskiewicz says he believes it's going to be produced again. It contains a combination of vitamin B6, a sleep aid and an antihistamine and is reportedly very effective against nausea.
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