Key takeaways
- Paracetamol (Dolo / Crocin / Calpol, 500 mg) is the safe first choice for fever, headache or body ache — up to three times a day.
- For nausea, doxylamine (Doxinate) is safe; for constipation, isabgol or lactulose (Duphalac); for a cold, steam, saline gargles and cetirizine at night.
- This is for minor, short-term symptoms only — always confirm with your own doctor, and avoid painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin in pregnancy.
- Go to hospital for heavy bleeding, severe pain, high fever, persistent vomiting, reduced baby movements, or symptoms lasting more than 2–3 days.
For most mild, everyday symptoms in pregnancy, there are a few well-established, pregnancy-safe medicines you can use for short-term relief until you are able to consult your doctor — so you don't have to rush to Emergency for every minor ailment.
This is the exact guidance I give my own pregnant patients at Dr. Anam's Women Health Clinic in Gurugram. It is meant only for minor, short-lived symptoms. If anything is severe, unusual, or lasting, please call the clinic or come in rather than manage it at home. Below is what is safe, what to avoid, and the warning signs that mean it's time to see a doctor.
What can I take for a headache, body ache or fever?
Paracetamol is the safe first choice. It is sold as Dolo, Crocin or Calpol (500 mg), and you can take one tablet up to three times a day (1–1–1) when needed.
What is safe for abdominal pain or cramps?
For mild cramps, an antispasmodic such as Drotin or Cyclopam can be taken, up to three times a day (1–1–1).
Which medicine is safe for nausea and vomiting?
Doxinate (doxylamine) 10 mg is a safe, commonly used option, up to three times a day (1–1–1). For excessive nausea, an Ondem MD 4 mg tablet placed under the tongue (sublingually) may be advised.
What can I take for a cold or cough?
Start with steam inhalation and saline gargles. For relief, Cetirizine 10 mg at bedtime, or cough syrup Koflet (2 teaspoons three times a day), can be used.
What helps with loose motions (diarrhoea)?
A probiotic such as Darolac, twice daily for 3 days, can help. Take a light diet with curd, and avoid milk, and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
What is safe for constipation in pregnancy?
Isabgol (psyllium husk), 2 teaspoons with a glass of water at bedtime, or lactulose syrup Duphalac 30 ml at bedtime, are both safe.