Peppermint oil
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Antispasmodics are occasionally used in pregnancy if they are needed to control diverticular disease or IBS.
What are they?
Antispasmodics (mebeverine hydrochloride [Colofac®, Colofac IBS®, Aurobeverine®], alverine citrate [Audmonal®, Spasmonal®], and peppermint oil [Colpermin®, Colomint®, Buscomint®, Mintec®, PepperMinn®) are used to treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Alverine citrate is also used in the treatment of another bowel problem called diverticular disease, and for period pain cramps.
Benefits
What are the benefits of using an antispasmodic in pregnancy?
Antispasmodics can reduce the symptoms of IBS and diverticular disease, and therefore improve overall health and quality of life. It is important that long-term diarrhoea in pregnancy is well-managed as it can affect the level of some important vitamins and minerals.
Risks
What are the risks of using an antispasmodic in pregnancy?
There is very little information on women taking antispasmodics in pregnancy so it unclear if they are safe for the baby.
Alternatives
Are there any alternatives to using an antispasmodic in pregnancy?
Possibly. Lifestyle changes and other medicines can help with IBS but are not suitable for everyone. It is important that diverticular disease and severe IBS are well-controlled, so staying on an antispasmodic may be recommended for some women.
Women who are taking an antispasmodic and planning a pregnancy should speak to their doctor or specialist to make sure that it is ok to continue. No changes to medication should be made unless recommended by a doctor.
No treatment
What if I prefer not to take medicines during pregnancy?
It is important for the woman’s health and wellbeing that IBS or diverticular disease remain as well-controlled as possible. A doctor will only prescribe medicines when necessary and will be happy to discuss any concerns.
Will I or my baby need extra monitoring?
As part of routine antenatal care, most women will be offered a very detailed scan at around 20 weeks of pregnancy to check the baby’s development. No extra monitoring for major birth defects is required following use of an antispasmodic.
Are there any risks to my baby if the father has taken an antispasmodic ?
There is no evidence that an antispasmodic used by the father can harm the baby through effects on the sperm.
Who can I talk to if I have questions?
If you have any questions regarding the information in this leaflet please discuss them with your health care provider. They can access more detailed medical and scientific information from www.uktis.org.