Can I take paracetamol (acetaminophen) for a headache?
When you have a headache, first measure your blood pressure and make sure it's normal; if it's high, contact your doctor before taking any medicine. Paracetamol is generally the first-choice painkiller for headaches during pregnancy. Use it only when needed, and choose products that contain only paracetamol rather than combinations with caffeine. Ask your doctor about the dose and how long to take it, and let them know if the pain doesn't go away. After week 20, if a severe headache comes with vision problems or sudden swelling of your face or hands, see your doctor right away.
Do iron pills cause constipation?
Yes, constipation is a common side effect of iron tablets; an upset stomach and darker stools can also happen. Eat more fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruit, whole grains and legumes, drink plenty of water and walk every day. If the problem continues, don't stop the medicine on your own; your doctor may suggest a different iron product. If your stools are black and tarry, red or bloody, see your doctor right away.
Should I take iron with tea or coffee?
No. Tea and coffee reduce how much iron your body absorbs; avoid tea, coffee, dairy products and eggs for about 2 hours before and after your iron. Iron is absorbed better on an empty stomach, but if it upsets your stomach you can take it with food; vitamin C sources like orange juice can help absorption. If you drink tea at breakfast, take your iron at another time of day, and leave 2 hours between it and any stomach medicines.
When should I take folic acid, and for how long?
Folic acid lowers the risk of defects in the baby's brain and spinal cord development (neural tube defects). Türkiye's Ministry of Health recommends 400 micrograms a day, starting at least 1 month before you try to conceive and continuing through the first 3 months; confirm the dose with your doctor. If you've had a pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect before, have diabetes or take epilepsy medicine, your doctor may recommend a higher dose. If you've just found out you're pregnant and aren't taking it yet, talk to your doctor and start without delay. This applies in Türkiye; if you live elsewhere, follow your doctor's advice and your own country's health program.
When should I start iron tablets?
Türkiye's Ministry of Health recommends iron supplements from week 16 for all pregnant women, even without anemia, continuing for 3 months after birth. Confirm the dose with your doctor. If you're found to have anemia, your doctor will adjust your treatment based on your blood results. In some countries, such as the UK, iron is only given if you have anemia or are at risk. This applies in Türkiye; if you live elsewhere, follow your doctor's advice and your own country's health program.
Should I take a multivitamin or herbal supplements?
Apart from folic acid, vitamin D and iron if needed, most pregnant women who eat a balanced diet may not need an extra multivitamin; doctors' approaches to this can differ. Supplements containing vitamin A (retinol) and fish liver oil aren't recommended. Not every "natural" product is safe; ask your doctor before taking any supplement.
Is it safe to take medicines or antibiotics during pregnancy?
Most medicines pass through the placenta to the baby, so don't take any medicine without asking first, including over-the-counter products. Leaving an infection untreated is also risky; your doctor can choose an antibiotic that's suitable in pregnancy. Don't use leftover medicines or ones prescribed for someone else. Don't stop regular medicines, such as those for blood pressure, thyroid, diabetes or epilepsy, on your own; talk to your doctor as soon as you find out you're pregnant.
Do I need to take vitamin D?
Türkiye's Ministry of Health recommends 1200 IU of vitamin D a day from week 12 for all pregnant women, continuing for at least 6 months after birth. Confirm which product to use and the dose with your doctor or family doctor. Don't take more than one product containing vitamin D at the same time. This applies in Türkiye; if you live elsewhere, follow your doctor's advice and your own country's health program.
Can I take painkillers like ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen and similar anti-inflammatory painkillers shouldn't be used in pregnancy unless your doctor specifically recommends them. After week 20, or when used for more than 2–3 days, they can affect the baby's circulation and the amniotic fluid. Avoid painkillers containing codeine, too. Paracetamol is usually the first choice for pain; if you're not sure, ask your pharmacist or doctor.
What can I take if I get a cold or the flu?
Rest and drink plenty of fluids; paracetamol is usually suitable for fever and aches. Some cold and cough remedies aren't suitable in pregnancy, and combination products may contain things like caffeine, so ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking anything. If your temperature is 38°C or higher, you have shortness of breath or chest pain, or your symptoms don't go away within a few days, see your doctor.
Should I use iodized salt?
Your iodine needs increase in pregnancy, and iodine is important for the baby's brain development. In Türkiye, table salt must be iodized, but salt used in the food industry isn't, so use iodized table salt at home. Still, keep your salt intake moderate. Ask your doctor whether you need an extra iodine supplement. This applies in Türkiye; if you live elsewhere, follow your doctor's advice and your own country's health program.
Meyu is an information and tracking tool; it does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.