When it comes to ingesting anything, you need to be in constant communication with your doctor. Because pregnancy can be different from one woman to another, no one medicine is considered safe.

However, do you need to run to your doctor for every little headache? Ideally, you should not take any over-the-counter medication while pregnant unless it is necessary. Even with that said, don't take more than the recommended dose. And always err on the side of safety: don’t taking anything during your first trimester without your doctor’s approval because your baby is still very vulnerable.

Your best line of defense is to consult with your doctor at your next wellness checkup about what to do if you feel unwell. Let her prescribe a plan for you that will give you peace of mind and the relief you are looking for.

Meanwhile, we know that the following medications and home remedies have no known harmful effects during pregnancy when taken according to the package directions.  But because no drug can be considered 100% safe to use during pregnancy, observe how you react to them and report back to your doctor.

Allergy

• Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine

• Loratadine, an antihistamine 

• Chlorpheniramine, an antihistamine 

• Steroid nasal spray 

Cough, Cold and Flu

• Acetaminophen or Paracetamol 

• Guaifenesin, an expectorant 

• Dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant 

• Saline nasal drops or spray

• Warm salt/water gargle

• Vicks vapor rub

NOTE: The decongestants pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, which can affect blood flow to the placenta

Constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids

• Docusate sodium

• Psyllium fiber

• Polycarbophil

• Methylcellulose

• Hemorrhoid creams

• Loperamide, antidiarrheal medication 

First Aid Ointment

• Bacitracin

• Neosporin

• Polysporin

Rashes

• Diphenhydramine cream

• Calamine lotion or cream

• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment

• Oatmeal bath

Yeast infection and other fungal infections

• Clotrimazole

• Miconazole

• Terbinafine

• Tioconazole

• Butoconazole

• Butenafine

• Tolnaftate

Note: DO NOT TAKE Certain Cruex, Desenex, and FungiCure products that may contain antifungal agents not listed here and should not be used during pregnancy. Check labels carefully and avoid any products containing active ingredients not listed here.

What about natural and alternative sources?

Experts still have not come to any conclusion about the safety and effectiveness of natural or alternative remedies. Many haven't yet been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women. With the risks still unknown, the safest route is to avoid them. If you are inclined to homeopathic or alternative remedies, consult with your doctor.

SOURCES:

Taking Medicine During Pregnancy

https://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/taking-medicine-during-pregnancy#1

Safe Medications During Pregnancy

https://www.babycenter.com/0_safe-medications-during-pregnancy_1486462.bc