Your safest bet is to avoid this pain- and fever-relieving medication while you’re expecting. Studies suggest it might carry some risks during pregnancy, especially after week 20. That said, in the first trimester, its use could possibly increase the chances of miscarriage and a condition called gastroschisis (where the intestines stick out of a hole in the stomach wall). After week 20, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends avoiding ibuprofen unless your doctor feels it’s necessary. Among the potential risks, it could lead to serious complications, like poor lung development and high blood pressure in the fetus, and even preterm delivery. For a personalized answer, check with your healthcare provider, who will likely recommend acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead.