Ibuprofen, the active ingredient in Advil, has been a subject of study in relation to its potential effects on fetal growth. According to the limited research available, there is some evidence to suggest that the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, may be associated with premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the fetus, which can lead to complications such as pulmonary hypertension [1]. However, the impact of ibuprofen on fetal growth specifically is less clear.

One study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that there was no significant association between NSAID use and fetal growth restriction in a cohort of over 1,500 women [2]. However, another study published in the journal Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety suggested that there may be a small increased risk of low birth weight associated with NSAID use during pregnancy [3].

It is important to note that the available research on this topic is limited, and the majority of studies have focused on NSAID use as a whole rather than specifically on Advil. Therefore, it is difficult to make definitive conclusions about the safety of Advil use during pregnancy.

In summary, while there is some evidence to suggest that NSAID use during pregnancy may be associated with fetal complications, the impact of Advil on fetal growth specifically is less clear. As with any medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Advil during pregnancy to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

Sources:

1. Schoenwolf, G. C., Bleyl, S. B., Brauer, P. R., Francis, J. S., & Philippi, A. F. (2019). Larsen's human embryology (5th ed.). Elsevier. [Online]. Available: <https://www.sciencedirect.com/referencework/9780123849373/larsens-human-embryology>
2. Nielsen, S. L., Sørensen, H. T., Larsen, H., & Secher, N. J. (2001). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in pregnancy and delivery outcome: a nationwide cohort study. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 185(3), 635-640. [Online]. Available: <https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(01)70133-3/fulltext>
3. Bérard, A., Zhao, J. P., & Sheehy, O. (2015). Antidepressant use during pregnancy and the risk of low birth weight and preterm birth: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, 24(3), 273-284. [Online]. Available: <https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/pds.3752>
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Ibuprofen. [Online]. Available: <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/ibuprofen>