Does medication increase the risks of congenital malformations for my baby?

Congenital malformations, so malformations present at birth, are a common concern for expecting parents. In a healthy population, congenital malformations happen in approximately 3 out of 100 pregnancies. This is called the background risk.

Some medications, such as thalidomide, can increase the risk of malformation.

If you have a medical condition that requires taking medication during your pregnancy, your healthcare professional will evaluate, with you, the risks to your baby to determine the best option for both you and your baby.

These risks depend on several factors, including:

• The medication types: Some medications increase the risk of congenital malformations.
• The dose: The amount of medication taken can influence the level of risk to your baby’s development.
• The stage of pregnancy: The trimester in which the medication is taken can impact the level of risk for malformations.
• Your health condition: Certain medical conditions can increase the risks associated with some medications.

It is important to discuss any concerns regarding medications during your pregnancy with your healthcare team. They are there to ensure your health and your baby’s health.

If you have a question on a specific medication, use the search engine of our website or Serene, our chatbot, to learn about the risks and benefits of your medication and help you prepare your questions for your healthcare providers.