Homeopathy

There is neither scientific evidence nor uniform recommendations for the effects of homeopathic remedies. Particularly during pregnancy, one should refrain from taking medicines or homeopathic remedies – whether or not they are freely available – without consulting the gynaecologist in charge. Homeopathic remedies are not uniformly tested and experience values in pregnancy are simply missing.

Many of the liquid homeopathic remedies contain alcohol and are therefore strictly prohibited during pregnancy. Therefore, no recommendations can be made at this point. The same applies to “herbal” active substances. These supposedly natural remedies can also be contraindicated during pregnancy. Therefore, even over-the-counter medicines should not be taken without consultation.

What medications can I take for this?

No medication should be taken during pregnancy without a doctor’s consultation, as there is often a contraindication due to the pregnancy. In the case of low blood pressure, drug therapy is rarely necessary anyway. Often the problem can be brought under control with non-drug measures.

However, if medication is necessary, it is prescribed by the gynecologist with a suitable dosage scheme. One of these drugs is Etilefrin. However, this drug must not be used in the first trimester of pregnancy, as it is contraindicated during this period.

Even after this period, it should only be used if the treating physician approves of it. Etilefrin is usually administered in the form of drops. The average dose for adults is about 32-48 drops 2-3 times a day.

The administration of the drug dihydroergotamine is now controversial. Also this drug must not be administered in the first trimester of pregnancy. After that the use is also controversial. In case of orthostatic hypotension Dihydroergotamine may not be prescribed any more, unlike in the past. There are only rare cases in which the drug is used.

When will I be put on sick leave or will I be banned from employment?

There is no blood pressure limit above which a woman is prohibited from working or receives a certificate of incapacity to work. However, there is the possibility of a sick-leave – also for a longer period of time – if the attending physician considers the mother or the unborn child to be at risk due to the work. The reasons for such a sick leave are severe circulatory problems, repeated falls of the mother or severe dizziness.

This also depends on the mother’s job and activity. However, this question must be clarified individually with the gynecologist treating the child and cannot be answered in a generalized way. In principle, however, a lowered blood pressure does not constitute a reason for a ban on employment, as it usually does not threaten the pregnancy or the mother.