Low-Dose Aspirin During Pregnancy Could Reduce Your Risk of Preeclampsia

Why take aspirin during pregnancy?

A daily low dose of aspirin (81 milligrams) during pregnancy might be recommended for some women.

Low-dose aspirin can prevent or delay the onset of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a dangerous form of high blood pressure that typically begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Preeclampsia occurs in up to 8% of pregnant women.

Most women deliver healthy babies and fully recover from preeclampsia. Yet in some cases, the condition can be life-threatening to the mother and unborn baby. It can cause liver or kidney damage and can double a woman’s chances for future heart disease and stroke.

Learn more about preeclampsia and your risk.

How aspirin helps

Aspirin is an over-the-counter drug. It is used to relieve pain, reduce fever and lower inflammation. Aspirin also thins the blood, which helps prevent blood clots from forming.

Who needs aspirin during pregnancy?

The American Heart Association recommends that women who are at increased risk of preeclampsia, such as those with chronic high blood pressure or a previous case of pregnancy-related high blood pressure, should be counseled/educated about taking low-dose aspirin from 12 weeks until delivery.

Talk to your health care professional to learn if a daily low-dose aspirin is recommended and safe for you.

Is aspirin safe during pregnancy?

Low-dose aspirin therapy in pregnancy is generally considered safe for certain women. It is associated with a low likelihood of serious maternal or fetal complications, according to guidelines.

Some women, such as those with an aspirin allergy, should not take it. Research does not support taking low-dose aspirin for the prevention of early pregnancy loss, fetal growth restriction, stillbirth or preterm birth.

Women who are pregnant or plan to get pregnant should discuss the benefits and risks of taking low-dose aspirin with a health care professional.