Nascency Surrogate Resource: Safe Medications During Surrogacy Pregnancy

At Nascency, your health and safety—as well as the well-being of the baby you’re carrying—are our top priorities. During your surrogacy journey, you may experience common symptoms like headaches, heartburn, or a cold. It’s completely normal to have questions about what medications are safe to take while pregnant.

This guide offers general recommendations on over-the-counter (OTC) medications that are typically considered safe for pregnancy. However, please always check with your OB or care team before taking any medication, even if it’s listed here.

General Guidelines for Medication Use

• Always check with your provider first, especially since you’re carrying a baby through surrogacy and may be under additional medical monitoring.
• Choose single-ingredient medications when possible to limit unnecessary exposure. 
• Don’t self-diagnose or assume medications are safe because they’re OTC. 
• Keep your care team informed about any new symptoms or medications you’re considering.

Common Symptoms & Medications Generally Considered Safe

Headache or Pain Relief

• Safe to take: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 
• Avoid: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and Aspirin unless your OB specifically recommends them

Cold or Flu Symptoms 

Safe options: 

• Saline nasal spray 
• Acetaminophen for fever or aches 
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergies or congestion 
• Dextromethorphan (Robitussin) for cough 
• Guaifenesin (Mucinex) – only if your doctor approves 

Avoid: Pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine unless cleared by your OB 

Allergies 

Safe to take: Benadryl, Claritin (Loratadine), or Zyrtec (Cetirizine)

Avoid: Decongestant nasal sprays unless prescribed

Nausea or Morning Sickness 

Safe to take (with provider’s approval): 

• Vitamin B6 
• Doxylamine (Unisom SleepTabs) – sometimes used with B6
• Prescription meds like Diclegis or Zofran, if needed 

Helpful tips:

Eat small meals, stay hydrated, and try ginger or acupressure bands

Heartburn or Indigestion 

Safe to take: 

• Tums (Calcium carbonate) 
• Famotidine (Pepcid) 

Avoid: Antacids with sodium bicarbonate

Constipation 

Safe to take: 

• Docusate sodium (Colace) 
• Fiber supplements (like Metamucil or Benefiber) 
• Occasional use of Milk of Magnesia (check with your provider) 

Helpful tip: Drink plenty of water and eat high-fiber foods

Diarrhea 

Safe options: 

• Clear fluids or oral rehydration drinks (like Pedialyte) 
• Loperamide (Imodium) – only with OB approval

Avoid: Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth subsalicylate)

Hemorrhoids

Safe options: 

• Witch hazel pads (Tucks) 
• Over-the-counter creams like Preparation H 
• Warm sitz baths

Yeast Infections 

Safe to use: Over-the-counter creams like Monistat (7-day treatment is best) 

Avoid: Oral yeast infection medications unless prescribed

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

If you have symptoms like burning during urination or needing to pee often, contact your OB right away. UTIs need antibiotics and must be treated quickly during pregnancy.

A Note About Supplements and Herbal Remedies

“Natural” doesn’t always mean safe. Always ask your provider before using herbal teas, essential oils, or supplements during pregnancy. 

When to Call Your Provider Right Away

Call your OB immediately if you experience:

• Fever over 101°F 
• Severe cramps or pain 
• Vaginal bleeding 
• Vomiting that keeps you from staying hydrated 
• Swelling in your hands, feet, or face 

Final Thoughts from Nascency

Every surrogacy journey is unique. At Nascency, we’re here to support you with resources, communication, and care. If you ever feel unsure about a symptom or medication, your care team is just a phone call away. Your well-being—and the health of the baby you’re carrying—matters deeply to us and to the intended parents. 

Thank you for the incredible role you play in helping a family grow.