Aspirin 12 weeks to delivery

[Nikki512]

Has anyone been given aspirin from 12 weeks to help with the risk of pre eclampsia?
I have been due to my weight and risk as it’s my first pregnancy.
I really don’t like the thought of taking it as I’m trying not to take any meds only my pregnacare. I also had a previous miscarriage and blood thinning just makes me worrying about the risk of miscarrying (which I don’t even know if it’s right) probs all in my head. I’m booked to speak to midwife about it on wed but would love some of your experiences and thoughts

TIA

Yes, I did. According to the NICE guidelines there is solid evidence that it helps reduce the risk of preeclampsia (but only if you start it before 15 weeks, which is why they prescribe it early), and nothing to indicate higher risks of miscarriage. In fact, there are doctors who prescribe it after recurrent miscarriages, but I think that effect is less well established. It has been standard practice for years. I wouldn't worry!

Why do you think your doctor, with experience, training, education and access to literature on best evidence based practice would prescribe you something unsafe?

I took it from 8 weeks as I'm diabetic and it helped with my body integrating the baby's blood.

Why would you not listen to a healthcare professional??

I should say I've been on it since 12 weeks due to carrying MCDA twins. Currently 31 weeks and all three of us are healthy.

There's enough to worry about pregnancy without second guessing our doctors too

If it’s a real risk of preclampsia then low molecular weight heparin is prescribed (with or without aspirin) and you will be encouraged to take calcium and vitamin D supplements by either your GP or consultant.

If it’s a mathematical risk then the computer or whatever risk model the Midwife uses at your booking in appointment will automatically prescribe aspirin.

Suggest you talk to your GP or request to see a consultant if you’re worried.

Yes I took it from 9 weeks because of previous pre eclampsia and miscarriages. I also had severe bleeding and clots at 8 and 9 weeks in that pregnancy without it I don't believe she would be here

I saw a Consultant a couple of weeks ago who mentioned aspirin to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. It's early days so haven't started anything yet but based on the information I've had will be following their advice. As PP have mentioned it might be worth speaking to your GP or midwife if the risks/benefits haven't been explained

I took it due to age and ethnicity. My GP actually had to check with a consultant why the booking midwife prescribed it as I was very fit before and during pregnancy. Sorry to say I actually found the midwives useless over providing information over medication and supplements.

I suggest you check with your GP whether you have to take it until 40 weeks as I was advised to stop taking it at 36 weeks.

The medical literature shows low dose aspirin works hence the NHS is happy to give it to you on prescription even though it is much cheaper to buy over the counter. This is because treating you and your newborn for the effects of preeclampsia is far more expensive.

In regards to taking no medications during pregnancy - doctors working for the NHS don't tell pregnant women to take things for the sake of it. They are acutely aware of that drugs can cause side effects and know only to prescribe/tell pregnant women to take things when necessary.

"I also had a previous miscarriage and blood thinning just makes me worrying about the risk of miscarrying (which I don’t even know if it’s right) probs all in my head. "

In the low dose it's usually prescribed in it can actually help to reduce the risks of miscarriage.