Herbs and Supplements During Pregnancy

Many individuals feel that herbal products are safer than prescription drugs on the market currently. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal medicines and supplements differently. Unlike prescription drugs, herbal medicines are not scrutinized for safety and effectiveness before they reach the general public. There is also great variation in preparation and recommended dosing regimens from product to product, even for the same supplement. Reliable information about herbal medicines can be difficult to find because some resources list a product safe to consume whereas another source may list it as unsafe.

For example, although a commonly used herb, Red Raspberry Leaf is controversial due to differing opinions on its effects. Some resources suggest it helps prevent miscarriage and others advise against taking it during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy due to uterus stimulation, which could cause miscarriage.

According to Jeffrey Dunn, Pharm. D., MBA, Select Health, the Food and Drug Administration urges pregnant women not to use herbal products without discussing it with their health care providers first.  It is recommended that herbal products be avoided in pregnancy until further validated studies are performed based on safety and efficacy, especially when there is limited data on studies with risk to the fetus.  Many herbs may cause unnecessary conditions like miscarriage or premature birth, uterine contractions, and injury to the fetus.  Choosing to take herbs during pregnancy is a personal choice, but you should be well educated on the type of herb to ensure the best outcome for you and your baby.

The following list of herbals is an example of some of the many herbal medicines listed on the market that are proven unsafe in pregnancy:

• Aloe Species or Senna – Examples of laxative agents that could cause stimulation of the uterus causing miscarriage
• Dong Quai – Affects hormonal function and uterine stimulation.
• Licorice – Induces pre term delivery.
• St. John’s Wart – Has never been tested for possible side effects in pregnancy and acts as a mild uterine stimulant in lab animals.
• Peppermint – Common herb that can act as a uterine irritant or stimulant in higher doses.
• Blue Cohosh: Stimulates uterine contractions

Contact your health care provider before using ANY herbs or dietary supplements during your pregnancy.