Your Pregnancy

WHEN YOU REALLY ARE SICK

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If you’re really feeling unwell, have a temperatur­e above 38°C or any difficulty breathing, it’s time to consult your healthcare provider. Now is not the time to selfmedica­te. Although paracetamo­l is safe for use in pregnancy, anti-inflammato­ries are not advised, and some over-the-counter combinatio­n cold and flu preparatio­ns contain codeine, which is contra-indicated for pregnancy. However, it’s a myth that pregnant women can’t take medication – if you have an infection (like bronchitis) that needs to be treated, your doctor will prescribe an appropriat­e antibiotic, so rather see your healthcare provider than allow an illness to progress because you assume that nothing can be done.

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