Are you experiencing the typical aches and pains that come with pregnancy? Or is the pain more extreme, and you are searching for a solution to safely ease your discomfort? When I was pregnant, I wanted instant relief for all of the pains I felt, so I truly understand this situation.
If you have considered some of your old standby remedies, there is a possibility that you thought about using Icy Hot while pregnant. You might have even given it a try, in a desperate moment of muscle pain and pregnancy related soreness.
However, just how safe is it to use this product while pregnant?
Is Icy Hot ever safe during pregnancy?
Unfortunately, it is not recommended for pregnant women to use Icy Hot for the duration of their pregnancy, or while nursing. Icy Hot is a mentholated balm, which can provide relief to sore muscles and comfort you during periods of aches and pains.
However, a small amount of Icy Hot is absorbed through the skin when it is applied. This goes into your bloodstream and a tiny amount may cross the placenta to your baby. Unless your doctor specifically tells you to use Icy Hot for pain, it is not recommended for use at all during pregnancy (source).
What do I do if I already used it during my pregnancy?
If you have already used Icy Hot while pregnant, don’t panic! Chances are everything will be fine with both you and your child. Instead, immediately discontinue use of the product. Then call your doctor and ask for their advice, or try to make an appointment to meet with them and discuss alternative solutions.
If there is a good reason and the benefits outweigh the risks, your doctor may tell you to continue to use the Icy Hot sparingly. You need to check in with your obstetrician as soon as possible after using the Icy Hot.
Will there be any issues with my baby if I already used Icy Hot when pregnant?
While nobody but your doctor can answer this question, it is very unlikely that you will have any problems or issues with your baby or pregnancy from using Icy Hot. Now that you know it isn’t considered safe for use, you can find something else to try.
What product can I use instead of Icy Hot when I am pregnant?
A similar product that can be safely be used during pregnancy is Vicks Vaporub. Vicks is safe for use in pregnant and nursing women, so you will not need to worry about any potential side effects or hazards.
JR Watkins Ointment is also considered safe to use in pregnancy, and it will give you the same mentholated feel that Icy Hot provides, but without the possible issues. As always, before starting any of these medications, you should contact your doctor for advice.
What else can I do to help my sore body during pregnancy?
I know how painful pregnancy can be! Fortunately, there are so many forms of relief that you can try other than medication.
- angellistYoga and stretching can help ease many of the discomforts of pregnancy.
- angellistA good massage therapist who understands prenatal massage can also be a big help. Just standing up straight and improving your daily posture can eliminate some of the hip and back pain that you may be experiencing.
- angellistA warm bath or shower can also relieve pressure and pain in the muscles. While it is tempting to run straight for the medication, when you are pregnant it is always safer to start with less invasive solutions.
What if the pain doesn’t go away?
If you continue feeling pain even after trying some of the above solutions, I understand why you will be tempted to try a medicine to relieve your aches! Instead of turning to Icy Hot while pregnant, ask your doctor for advice. It may be that your pains are not normal pregnancy pains, and there may be another resolution for you.
However, as you reach the end of the third trimester, it is very common to feel the pain increase as your body gets bigger and moves to accommodate your labor. If the pain is overwhelming, call your doctor now and ask for help. You don’t need to suffer!
Conclusion
Pregnancy almost always comes with aches and pains that may leave you feeling like there is no end in sight. While the temptation to use medication to provide relief may be strong, try to use some of the alternatives listed here or call your doctor, instead of using Icy Hot.
If you have any questions or if you have found a solution to pregnancy pain that we haven’t written about here, please leave a comment below and let us know!
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