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pregnancy and pain meds

I am 12 wks pregnant with Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, and occasional seizures.  The pain is unbearable to where I cannot get out of bed to do anything, which isn't safe either. I cannot do this without some meds.  I was on lortab my first pregnancy and she is happy andhealthy 4 yr old. Anyone know what is safe.  My midwife believes in NO meds.  Desperate I can't sleep exercise or eat even at times.
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1331804 tn?1336867358
Hi and welcome!

I am so sorry to hear about the pain you are experiencing while pregnant.

Some opioid medications can be safe in lower amounts depending on the current health of the baby and mother.  

During labor, many women (myself included) received repeat morphine injections for labor pain.  It is important to note that all opioid medications cross into the placenta and the respiratory depression effects of the medicine can affect the baby too.

During my pregnancy, the sciatica was so bad that I could only walk a few feet which was excruitiating!  My OBGYN and PCP worked together and agreed that I could take Tylenol with codiene for my pain.  I used the medication sparingly and when the pain became so intense that I would have had to take more than I was comfortable with, I went out on short term disability for the remainder of the pregnancy (about 6 months).  I worked intermittantly for the first part but it got to the point that I couldn't even work part time and I went out on medical leave until after the baby was born.

He turned out to be a very healthy little boy with a apgar score of 9.  

It is so important to discuss your individual needs with both your OBGYN and PCP to make sure your pregnancy is going as planned and that there are no complications.  Taking narcotics during your first trimester is not recommended as my PCP said her decision to put me on Tylenol with Codeine was partly based on the fact that I was past my first trimester and after the first trimester, the risks for birth defects go down significantly.  

I understand your midwife has her opinion on what a pregnant mother should do but it is based on spiritual teachings and guidance, not what is medically available.  If you have the same views as your midwife, then the both of you should work together to find non medicinal ways to reduce your pain to get you and the baby more comfortable.  

Lastly, Congratulations on the baby on the way!  :)

femmy
Helpful - 0
547368 tn?1440541785
Hello and Welcome to the Pain Management Forum,

Being pregnant and managing Chronic Pain is difficult..... but not impossible. Obviously not all opiates are appropriate during this time.
Our archives contain multiple threads on this very subject.

You don't say in which state in which you reside which does make a difference. Has your pain been managed by a PMP until this time? There are PMP that specialize in pregnancy as even some experts in Pain Management are uncomfortable prescribing opiates to expectant mothers. The risks for physicians can be huge..... to say nothing about your precious unborn child.

It may take some searching but locate a PMP that is skilled and comfortable in treating expectant mothers. Horrid, Chronic Pain or experiencing the terrors of withdraw is not beneficial for your fetus, indeed they can cause unnecessary stress.

Midwife's tend to take the Holistic approach to pregnancy/labor & delivery. In many instances that is wonderful... in your situation not so much. Please find a medical provider that will treat your pain and will also be very mindful of your precious baby.  

You are always welcome here. Good luck and please keep in touch.

Take Care,
~Tuck

Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Maybe you need a new midwife. What does your doctor say. I am sure there are plenty of woman who have been in this predicament. I know taking drugs is bad for the baby especially in the first trimester. What were you prescribed in your first pregnancy? Lyrica is what alot of doctors are prescribing for fibromyalga, You really should talk to your doctor or a pain management doctor. You can't spend the rest of you pregnancy in bed, you also have another child to look after. The doctor needs to know all about your life.
Good luck sweetheart, keep the site updated on what the doctor says.
Helpful - 0
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