There are a wide range of natural techniques to relieve symptoms of pregnancy (massage and patterned breathing to oral supplements and herbs). Some of these treatments are safe and can help, while others could harm you and your baby. Alternative therapies always need to be approved by your healthcare provider.
Alternative therapies are generally considered to be treatments for common pregnancy issues that do not involve traditional medications. These can include massage, meditation and natural products to relieve annoying symptoms of pregnancy (nausea, backache).
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During pregnancy, your health is very important. It is a time when your health is not only your own, but it is also shared with your growing baby. Many parents worry about the side effects of medicines during pregnancy. Though your healthcare provider will only prescribe medications and treatments that are safe for your pregnancy, some women prefer to use “all-natural” products to manage small issues during pregnancy.
This is thought by many parents to be safer. However, it is very important to discuss any and all treatments you may use during pregnancy with your healthcare provider. Some types of alternative therapies are not safe and can have negative side effects.
There are not many research studies on the topic of alternative therapies during pregnancy. Mothers-to-be are understandably reluctant to sign up for experiments involving their unborn babies. Also, manufacturers of vitamin and herbal supplements are not required by law to sponsor expensive testing of their products. Even when properly done studies exist, the results can be confusing, since so many different factors can affect the development of a baby.
It is important to discuss any alternative therapies you would like to use during pregnancy with your healthcare provider before you try them. However, there are a few techniques that are generally considered to be completely safe to use both during pregnancy and during labor. These include:
The following substances have the potential to harm a developing baby when used in a concentrated formulation (not as a spice in cooking). Some are thought to cause birth defects, and some to encourage early labor.
Avoid these oral supplements:
Very large doses of vitamin A can cause issues like birth defects. You should also avoid aromatherapy essential oils, like:
You can still cook with some of the herbs and spices on the list. Typically, you would need to consume a much larger amount of the substance than you would use while cooking. However, it is always alright to ask your healthcare provider if you plan to use any of the substances on the list.
Luckily, the chances are greater that the baby will not be affected than that it will. If you ever have any concerns about something you have eaten or been exposed to in anyway, call your healthcare provider. Your team of healthcare providers are always happy to answer your questions.
Unproven therapies can be risky. It is very important to discuss any alternative therapies with your healthcare provider before you start. Each pregnancy is unique and something that works for someone else may not work for you.
Information about alternative therapies is constantly being updated. Have a discussion with your healthcare provider about any advances in alternative treatments.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/17/2019.
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