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Should I get DD checked out? Given medication during pregnancy that can cause heart defect...

1 reply

Arana · 23/07/2012 03:29

It?s probably nothing, but I was reading about diclofenac (a painkiller I?m on at the moment, and the same one I took when I was pregnant with DD), and there?s LOTS of evidence that it shouldn?t be taken in the later stages of pregnancy as it can cause a serious heart defect in babies. One that doesn?t have any symptoms early on, but can cause heart failure. I took about 40 high strength diclofenac pills in the last month of DD's pregnancy.

This is one of the things I read (a scientific article)

Chronic exposure or exposure to high doses of NSAIDs after 30 weeks of gestation is associated with an increased risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and oligohydramnios. These effects are related to the inhibitory effect of NSAIDs on prostaglandin activity.

If an NSAID is clinically indicated in the first or second trimester, ibuprofen would be the preferred agent. NSAIDs should, where possible, be avoided during the third trimester. In circumstances where the clinical condition requires treatment with NSAIDs during the third trimester, the fetus should be monitored regularly for oligohydramnios and to ensure normal circulation.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patent_ductus_arteriosus

Should I get DD checked out? She's nearly 3 now, not had any problems as such, but she is (and always has been) on the 25th centile for height and weight, and is always a bit chesty.

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
saggarmakersbottomknocker · 23/07/2012 18:21

I would say that you're panicking unnecessarily. And that you should stop googling. Smile

Children are born with the ductus open as it forms part of the fetal circulation. It closes soon after birth. Diclofenic can cause premature closure ie before birth but the baby would usually present with some problems. If your dd appears fit and well I'm sure there's nothing to worry about. The link you've posted refers to children whose duct doesn't close as it should. This is quite common in prem babies.

I'm not medically trained though so see your GP if you're still worried.

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