Medical Guidelines & Disclaimers

Risk Categories for Medications During Pregnancy

Category	Description
A	No fetal risk; safe for use during pregnancy
B	No demonstrated fetal risk in animal testing or human studies
C	Unknown fetal risk due to limited studies
D	Evidence of fetal risk, but benefits may outweigh risks
X	Harmful to fetus; risks outweigh benefits; contraindicated

Key Medical Information

Medications taken during pregnancy can cross the placenta and expose the embryo/fetus to both pharmacological and adverse effects. While treating the mother when necessary is important, any medication during pregnancy should only be prescribed when the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the fetus.

Critical Periods

• First Trimester (weeks 3-11): Highest risk for birth defects (organogenesis phase)
• Second and Third Trimesters: Can affect growth and functional development
• Near Term: May affect labor and newborn

Baseline Risk Information

• 2-4% of all births have congenital malformations
• Approximately 15% of diagnosed pregnancies result in fetal loss
• Few medications are conclusively proven teratogenic in humans
• No medication is completely safe in early pregnancy

Medication Guidelines

When medication is necessary:

• Prefer well-established medications over newer ones
• Use lowest effective dose
• Choose single-component over multi-component formulations
• Always consult healthcare provider before any medication use

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Remember: Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy.