If a painkiller is required it is usually recommended that pregnant women take Paracetamol, in recommended doses, for pain relief. It is considered safe to use during pregnancy. Aspirin can cause a longer pregnancy and subsequent labour. If taken in high doses towards the end of the pregnancy it can cause bleeding problems in the mother and baby. Codeine based painkillers are much stronger and can cause constipation, which is especially a problem in late pregnancy.
Codeine can be addictive if taken in large doses or over the recommended dose.
Any painkillers can be over-used and if you are taking more than the recommended dosage on the package you may be suffering effects from them. Your baby will also be experiencing these effects. Both you and the baby can suffer withdrawal symptoms when stopping the use of painkillers if more than the recommended dose has been taken for long periods. Vitamins and Herbal Remedies Herbal remedies can be dangerous during pregnancy, especially if large doses are taken. Some aroma-therapy oils are not recommended during pregnancy or immediately after birth.