What complications can aspirin cause in pregnant women?

Aspirin is a common over-the-counter pain reliever, but its use during pregnancy can pose risks to both mother and baby. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) [1], aspirin should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester.

One potential complication of aspirin use during pregnancy is called Rh incompatibility [2]. If a pregnant woman takes aspirin, it can cause an increase in bilirubin levels in the fetus, which can lead to jaundice. In some cases, this can trigger an immune response in the mother's body, leading to the production of antibodies that can attack the Rh-positive blood cells of the fetus.

Another concern is premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus [3]. The ductus arteriosus is a blood vessel that connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta, and it is usually closed by the time a baby is born. However, if a pregnant woman takes aspirin, it can cause this blood vessel to close prematurely, which can lead to respiratory problems in the baby.

Additionally, high doses of aspirin during pregnancy can increase the risk of bleeding complications [4]. Aspirin works by inhibiting the production of thromboxane, a substance that helps the blood to clot. This can increase the risk of bleeding in the mother and the baby, which can be especially concerning if it occurs in the third trimester.

According to DrugPatentWatch.com [5], aspirin is a category C medication during pregnancy, meaning that its safety has not been fully established. However, in some cases, the benefits of taking aspirin may outweigh the risks, such as in women who have had a previous pregnancy complication.

Sources:

[1] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2019). Aspirin and other NSAIDs in pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/About-ACOG/News-Room/News-Releases/2019/Aspirin-and-Other-NSAIDs-in-Pregnancy

[2] Rh Incompatibility. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/hemoglobinopathies-and-hemolytic-diseases-of-the-newborn/rh-incompatibility

[3] Ductus Arteriosus. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/congenital-heart-disease/ductus-arteriosus

[4] Bleeding Complications. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/coagulopathy/bleeding-complications

[5] Aspirin. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/aspirin/