Aspirin in pregnancy – when can it be used?

Is aspirin safe during pregnancy?

Aspirin is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that should be used with caution during pregnancy. Acetylsalicylic acid used as an antipyretic or analgesic during a cold can lead to complications such as spina bifida in a child or premature closure of the Botall’s duct. Aspirin, used in III. trimester, can also lead to perinatal complications, so if necessary, moms-to-be should reach for the pregnancy-safe drug paracetamol. Also remember that acetylsalicylic acid is an ingredient in over-the-counter medications used for flu-like symptoms. For this reason, it is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist first before taking any medication during pregnancy.

When is aspirin used in pregnancy?

However, acetylsalicylic acid has found use among pregnant women. It should be included by a gynecologist after a first trimester ultrasound when the estimated risk of preeclampsia(pre-eclampsia) is higher than 1:150. Parameters such as current risk factors, blood pressure values, PAPP-A protein and PlGF (placental growth factor) levels, and uterine artery pulsatile values are used to calculate risk. It is very important to start acetylsalicylic acid prophylaxis before 16. week of pregnancy, that is, before the end of the process of transformation of the uterine spiral arteries. It is believed that the risk of preeclampsia before 34. week of pregnancy while a woman is taking aspirin drops by up to 80%.

In addition, according to the Position Statement of the Polish Society of Hypertension, the Polish Society of Cardiology and the Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians, pregnant women with chronic kidney disease should also before 16. Week of pregnancy start acetylsalicylic acid at a dose of 100-150 mg/d. This is because it reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia, preterm labor and stunted intrauterine development of the baby.

Aspirin dosage during pregnancy

In the prevention of pre-eclampsia, aspirin dosing should be done under medical supervision. Most often, a pregnant woman takes 100-150 mg of acetylsalicylic acid once a day, in the evening. This prophylaxis begins before 16. Week and continues to 36. One week of pregnancy.