Is it safe to take Peppermint capsules in early pregnancy?

[Tallyhooo]

Hi - I've just been for an early scan (6 wks) and have had severe bloating and a 'pushing' pressure 'down below -

They scanned me, but said my pain is down to high progesterone levels loosening everything up and causing gas (they couldn't see my right ovary because of it!) - I thought I was a lot further on than 6wks because of it, my tummy felt like I was 3mths +

I have a 9mth old so my periods hadn't really returned yet and my boobs have also started leaking again - (I stopped EBF at 6 mnths)

Anyway, they suggested 'peppermint capsules' for IBS to help with the gas - but now I've read online that peppermint may not be safe to take in early pregnancy, so I'm a bit unsure whether to take them or not?

Has anyone else had this problem, or found another solution?

Thanks

I looked into this for a bit in early pregnancy, I had a similar situation. I don’t think it is safe because I think it can cause internal bleeding. Peppermint oil can be used to bring on period. I think you need to consult a doctor about this. But I would be interested to know what they inform you with?

Thank you aetw - It was a midwife who suggested it to me yesterday, but I read the same things you mentioned online yesterday - so I'd rather not and maybe look for a 'safer' approach -

Am seeing my doctor next week so I'll discuss it with them too - but I just think anything that says 'risk' is best to avoid!!?

A lot of ladies drink peppermint tea during early pregnancy to relieve gas and bloating. Could that be an alternative for you?

That could help Steph? Didn't think about trying it in a tea - I'll def look into it, thank you :)

I had unbearable gas pains at 17 weeks and went to the GP. (I was doubling over at work and couldn’t stand!) He prescribed peppermint capsules and they really helped. I found I only needed to take one a day for 2 days and it eased considerably.
I also changed my diet to mirror an IBS one which I also think really helped. After a few weeks though I could eat normally again without any gas build up.
Hope you feel better soon!

I had awful bloating throughout with DC1 and eventually found ginger supplements worked. This time I've been taking them since day 1 and the bloating has been nowhere near as bad. I've had odd days here and there but honestly, ginger supplements have been the best thing ever x