Worried about Vicodin and Pregnancy

[mom627]

Hello - I have two herniated discs in my back, and am almost 6 months pregnant.  I have taken Vicodin (1-2 pills a day) for excruciating pain in my back on and off over the last 2 months.  My doctor said it was ok, but I read that Vicodin is a category "C" drug, with unknown side effects on the fetus.  Can anyone comment on whether this could be harmful to my baby, at this dosage, and any personal experiences anyone else may have??  Thank you!!

[baby4Staci]

this isnt monitored by a doctor so you probably wont get any "medical" answers.  

I would think that if your doctor prescribed it, then it is ok..

I really hope your back feels better and your little one comes to you perfectly healthy!!

[dandeelyon]

I'm currently taking hydrocone (generic vicodin) and am a little over 14 weeks pregnant.  I've taken that, oxycodone or fioricet during all of my pregnancies.  My children have come out fine.  They may start weening you off or change the med now that you are coming towards the end of the pregnancy because of a chance of the baby being addicted.  Depends on your pain though.  They can treat the baby when he/she comes out if your pain is absolutely unbearable.

I know how hard it is not to worry but try not to.  Good luck

[mommyc]

Odly enough Vicodin is safer than Ibuprofen or asprin. I thought the same thing " like is this Dr. crazy" but you will be fine!

[mom627]

Thanks to everyone who posted a comment - yes, it is VERY difficult to not worry about what's going on in there with the little one, and I HATE taking meds during the pregnancy.  However, when I'm on the verge of incapacitation and unable to even work, I'm more open to taking the medication, but the worry is still there.  

Thanks again and best of luck to everyone!!!

[tellybeth]

I am also having to take prescribed hydrocodone and am 11 weeks pregnant.  There are so many mixed "reviews" on taking any medication that I too have been terrified that I will hurt my baby.  I have excruciating pain in my right hip and down my leg to the foot.  I was actually scheduled for surgery to possibly locate the problem.  I went in the morning and was told they could not operate due to the fact that I was pregnant.  I am a teacher and have since been placed on disability and told to take hydrocodone 2 times daily for the pain.  I need at least one EVERYDAY and am soooo scared. I go back to work March 27, not because I am better but becuae I am so bored at home.  I know then I will need the 2 pills almost everyday.  I am unable to walk some days due to the pain and so, the pills are a necessity.  
Your post really helped me not feel so worried about this.
Thanks

[mom627]

I am still worried about it and trying to wean off on my own, thought the pain at times is really rough.  I've had this condition for about 4 years, and the pregnancy (especially as it's prgressing) is making it worse.  My doctor prescribed it, but literature says it's in a category where the effects are unknown, and is generally not prescribed in pregnancy.  I too am terrified that it's harming the baby, as I started taking it around 12-14 weeks.  I've never taken more than the prescribed dose, and never more than 2 a day, but even at that low dosage I can't help but freak out.  How many milligrams are the pills you are taking? Mine are 500's and now I only try to take if the pain is excruciating.  

I'm sorry to hear about your hip and hope that you have as comfortable a pregnancy as possible!  If you have any additional about the meds please let me know.

Thanks and good luck!