The period of pregnancy is crucial in one’s life where there is a need to adapt and avoid. It is very important to be cognizant of the things that can prove fatal for the mother or fetus both. In the same context, some drugs, alcohol or medications can cause some significant problems if taken during pregnancy. These have been attributed with causing birth defects as well where they are known as “teratogens”. Teratogen has the ability to alter the normal growth and development of the fetus.

Understanding the Risks: Medications and Pregnancy

The risk factor adhered to such drugs is inclusive of many factors, such as the type of the drug, size of the dose, periodicity of consumption, etc.

Types of Drugs that can Cause Birth Defects

The generic drugs that are linked to birth defects are:
• Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): The drug has the potential to cope with mental health disorders. However, recently it has been evaluated to be a risky factor in causing newborn hypertension, heart defects and other birth defects if taken during pregnancy.
• Accutane: As the name suggests, Accutane is helpful in treating acne problems. It is also enlisted in the list of drugs that cause significant problems as it has been examined as causing birth defects and stillbirth during pregnancy intake.
• Benzodiazepines: These have the potential to trigger calmness as they are psychoactive drugs. However, their intake during pregnancy can cause developmental birth defects like lacking muscle control and respiratory defects.
• Antibiotics: While antibiotics are regarded as a safe option during pregnancy, some groups have been established to generate developmental birth defects like heart defects and skull malformation.
• Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: They are useful in coping with pain and fever, but also concur with the risk of the neural tube and related birth defects.
Therefore, it is always necessary to consult the doctor before opting for medication.