If you are pregnant and looking for pain relief, ask your obstetric provider or pharmacist about the specific symptom and product you are considering. “Over the counter,” “topical,” and “natural” do not establish that a product is appropriate for your pregnancy.

Is there a pregnancy-safe pain relief cream?

There is no blanket recommendation that makes every pain-relief cream suitable for every pregnancy. Take the exact product label to your prenatal clinician or pharmacist. Products with similar names can contain different active ingredients, and advice depends on the ingredient, how it is used, and your medical circumstances.

  • Check the active ingredients and strength.
  • Explain where and how often you plan to use it.
  • Share your stage of pregnancy and other medicines.
  • Ask about the amount, duration, and any precautions if the clinician recommends it.
  • Do not assume a small amount or a skin-applied medicine has no risks.

What about ibuprofen, naproxen, or other NSAIDs?

The FDA advises against NSAID use at 20 weeks of pregnancy or later unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional because of risks to the unborn baby’s kidneys and amniotic fluid. The warning includes medicines sold over the counter. Read the FDA safety communication and ask your pharmacist whether a product contains an NSAID.

Prescribed low-dose aspirin for certain pregnancy conditions is an exception to this warning. Do not stop prescribed aspirin or another prescribed medicine based on this article; discuss it with the clinician managing your pregnancy.

What about acetaminophen or prescription pain medicine?

Ask your prenatal provider or pharmacist which option, if any, is appropriate for your symptoms and health history. This page does not recommend a medication, dose, or tapering schedule. If you are already taking prescription pain medication, discuss pregnancy and pain management with the prescribing clinician rather than changing it on your own.

When does back pain need medical attention?

Contact your obstetric care provider about severe or persistent back pain. Back pain with fever, burning during urination, or vaginal bleeding needs prompt discussion because it may have a cause beyond ordinary muscle discomfort. See ACOG’s guidance on back pain during pregnancy.

What non-medication options can I discuss?

Ask your prenatal healthcare team about comfortable positioning, support garments, appropriate activity, and whether rehabilitation or another assessment would be useful. Check before starting or changing an exercise program. Bring a list of the activities that trigger discomfort and what you have already tried.

Considering chiropractic care?

Discuss musculoskeletal care with your prenatal provider first. Our pregnancy chiropractic questions guide explains what to ask about assessment, training, risks, and coordination. A chiropractic visit does not replace prenatal care or medication advice from your obstetric provider or pharmacist.

Contact the practice

Dr. Jonathan A. Sirota’s boutique, one-on-one practice serves White Plains, NY, and Wilton, CT. Inform the office that you are pregnant before booking. Call 917-763-4141 for routine questions or review Calendly appointment options.

Updated November 11, 2026. Educational information does not replace individualized prenatal or medication advice. Sources are linked above.