Five People Who Should Know You're Pregnant

For the most part, deciding when and whom you tell about your pregnancy is 100% your business. That said, there are some reasons why sharing the news ASAP is a must once you’ve discovered you’re in the family way. According to the CDC, 9 in 10 women take medications while pregnant. Unfortunately, many medications either aren’t safe in pregnancy or haven’t been studied enough to determine if their use will be problematic in the long run. Here are five people who should know you’re pregnant right away.

1. Dentist

Your dentist asking if you’re pregnant every time they see you isn’t just a fun way to remind you your biological clock is ticking. From x-rays to antibiotics, and a rainbow of pain-killers in between, many common procedures and medications can be problematic in your preggo state. Also? Pregnancy can make your gums bleed like a mo-fo. Giving them a heads up will save you from yet another lecture about your crappy flossing habits.

2. Allergist

If you know ‘blue to the sky, orange to the thigh’ ISN’T a college football cheer, you’ll understand how important it is to keep your allergist in the loop. But it’s not just EpiPens that need to be considered. Inhalers, OTC medications, and prescription medications all should be discussed with your allergist once you know.

3. Dermatologist

Some dermatology treatments, like different acne medications, are known to cause birth defects. Your practitioner will be able to help you determine if what you’re using should be stopped, or if there are other options.

4. Psychiatrist

If you are pregnant and being treated with medication prescribed by your psychiatrist, give ‘em a ring. Sometimes a change in meds is a must, but other times you can keep on truckin’. Either way, they will be able to help guide you through the process.

5. Pharmacist

Pharmacists are kind of the unsung heroes of the neighborhood. Not only can they help you determine if an OTC medication is safe to use in pregnancy (woot! Free advice!), they can direct you to whoever can answer your question if they don’t know. And, if they know you’re pregnant, they can act as a gatekeeper when it comes to making sure the medications you’re being prescribed are safe to use during pregnancy. See? Unsung heroes, I tell ya.

The truth is this list could include a boatload of other people.

Your general practitioner, massage therapist, chiropractor, internist, gynecologist, endocrinologist, acupuncturist – basically anyone who pokes, prods, or palpates your bits and pieces should all know. That way, they can provide safe and effective care for both you and your baby.

This isn’t meant to scare you away from A) proper medical care or B) medication – be it homeopathic, over-the-counter, or prescription. Rather, this is a friendly reminder that not all medications are safe when you’re pregnant. Educating yourself via trusted websites, like the CDC’s Treating for Two, and talking over any medications you’re taking with your medical providers is a must once that baby is cookin’.