Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can affect pregnant people and can lead to dangerous outcomes without treatment. Doctors commonly prescribe low dose aspirin as a preventive treatment.
Healthcare professionals generally consider low dose aspirin safe to take during pregnancy. However, individuals with an allergy to aspirin, a history of bleeding ulcers, or who are already taking anticoagulant therapy need to avoid taking it.
This article explores the reasons behind using aspirin to prevent preeclampsia, who may benefit from it, and how to take it safely during pregnancy.
Health professionals often recommend low dose aspirin for pregnant people at high risk for preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia occurs when blood pressure rises to dangerously high levels during pregnancy. It can potentially cause complications such as placental abruption, kidney damage, seizures, and other life threatening conditions.
Approximately 2 to 3 out of 100 pregnant people experience preeclampsia.
Low dose aspirin may help prevent preeclampsia by reducing inflammation and preventing platelets from sticking together, which can reduce the risk of blood clots.
Although studies suggest taking aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia, the extent of the effect needs more research.
While the cause of preeclampsia remains unclear, experts have identified several risk factors. Doctors may recommend taking aspirin if pregnant people have:
- a history of preeclampsia
- chronic high blood pressure
- kidney disease
- autoimmune disorders
- diabetes
- pregnancy with more than one fetus
- a body mass index over 30 before pregnancy
- a maternal age of 35 or over
- a first-time pregnancy
During a prenatal appointment, the health professional determines the risk level and prescribes aspirin to anyone at high risk.
At follow-up visits, the health professional will monitor blood pressure and check for other possible signs of preeclampsia.
When a health professional prescribes aspirin, it is crucial to follow the prescriber’s instructions.
The typical dose of aspirin is around 81 milligrams daily to begin at 12 to 28 weeks of gestation until delivery. The dose may vary slightly from person to person.
It is usually a good idea to take the medication at the same time each day with food or just after eating.
Taking aspirin during pregnancy
Risks to the pregnant person
Taking low dose aspirin during pregnancy is
However, potential side effects may include:
- nausea
- heartburn
- slightly increased risk of bleeding
- rash
Risks to the fetus
There is
Instead, taking aspirin during pregnancy may improve pregnancy outcomes for high risk individuals.
Individuals with a history of sensitivity or allergy to aspirin or ibuprofen
Individuals also need to avoid taking aspirin if they have:
- a history of gastrointestinal ulcers
- a history of bleeding ulcers
- allergies to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- asthma
- blood clotting disorders
- to take anticoagulant medications while pregnant
If a person has concerns about taking aspirin during pregnancy, it is important they discuss them with a healthcare professional.
Symptoms that require immediate attention include:
- severe stomach pain
- allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling, and hives
- vomiting blood
- ringing in the ears
- feeling dizzy
- feeling lethargic
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Low dose aspirin can help reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia in high risk pregnancies.
The medication works by reducing inflammation and preventing platelets from sticking together.
Low dose aspirin is generally safe when a person takes it under medical supervision, but it is not suitable for everyone.
Understanding who should take aspirin, how to take it properly, and the potential risks is essential for the likelihood of the best possible outcomes during pregnancy.
Any decision regarding medication during pregnancy needs to involve consultation with a doctor.
