Body Pain in Pregnancy: Tylenol vs Diclofenac

Hello, mama-to-be! I know your body probably feels like a big collection of uninvited aches right now as a pregnant woman. The way your back creaks, how your hips groan, the way your shoulders painfully send distress signals, and even your enlarging tummy is constantly adding to the aches. Growing a tiny human is no small feat! And though you may feel as though a simple pain reliever can make every ache go away, it might just make it worse. Let us have a quick talk about easing body pain in pregnancy in a safe way that will not harm you or your baby.

Note: Always consult your doctor before taking any medication, even if it’s just an over-the-counter pain reliever. Although these drugs appear to be safe, the restrictions change when you’re expecting a child. 

Why You Have Body Pain in Pregnancy

When you become pregnant, your belly begins to expand. Your expanding belly shifts your center of gravity, and causes loosened ligaments. This crafts a perfect storm of body pain. Your growing uterus tugs on supporting ligaments, especially around your belly and hips. Hormonal shifts also soften tissues and make joints feel unstable. Your spine and posture bear more weight as your baby grows bigger, leading to back, hip, and pelvic pain.

This is what causes body pain in pregnancy.

This is why acetaminophen (Tylenol) often becomes the go-to recommendation for relieving general aches. It is widely considered safe in pregnancy when used as directed, though, like everything else during maternity, moderation is key. Don’t forget to consult your doctor before taking any medication.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Tylenol is often the friendliest pain relief. If you are experiencing body pain in pregnancy and need a pain reliever, acetaminophen (tylenol) is usually top of the list. It is loved by OB-GYNs and trusted health sources alike for its safety profile across all trimesters when used sparingly. It does not carry the same risks as other painkillers. Just stick to the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time and always confirm with your doctor that you’re not accidentally doubling up on it in combo meds.

Diclofenac 

Diclofenac is an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. It is used to relieve aches and body pain, as well as joint, muscular, and bone issues. It can come in the form of pills and capsules, as well as slow-release tablets and capsules. Diclofenac in particular is not recommended to manage body pain in pregnancy, especially in pregnancies above 20 weeks, unless carefully supervised. It may impact the baby’s kidney health and amniotic fluid balance, and can only be obtained with a prescription. 

You must consider the implications of the medicine on you or your unborn baby. Since the majority of medications taken by the mother will pass via the placenta and reach the infant, it is always advisable to consult your doctor before taking any medication during this period. One of the drugs to be conscious of in this period is Diclofenac.

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two examples of diseases that could require the use of diclofenac. 

The implication of drug usage by a pregnant woman on the child varies, depending on the stage of the pregnancy and why the drugs were taken. This effect could be positive or negative. Hence, women who require diclofenac at any stage of pregnancy should be monitored by a fetal medicine specialist. If you must, therefore, use any medications, at all, talk to a health care team before taking them.

What You Should Know Before Taking Diclofenac Medicine

Diclofenac can increase your chances of dying from a heart attack or stroke, particularly if you take it for a long period or in high doses, or if you already have heart issues. This medication should not be used before or following heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Another option for a pain reliever that is relatively safe is paracetamol. Before taking any drug, ask your doctor.

Why Is This Medication Prescribed?

You have probably seen Diclofenac on pharmacy shelves as gels or plasters for sore joints. In hospitals, it can also be given as injections or even eye drops. However, those are usually only used under a doctor’s watchful eye.

If you’re pregnant, it’s extra important to keep a close record of every medication you take in your maternity notes. That way, your healthcare team always knows exactly what’s going on.

Now here’s the thing…

Diclofenac can affect ovulation, which means it might make it harder to conceive if you’re trying for a baby. And when it comes to managing body pain in pregnancy and breastfeeding, Diclofenac can pass to your baby, either during pregnancy or through breast milk. This is why doctors usually advise against breastfeeding while on Diclofenac.

If you are pregnant, the safest bet is to avoid Diclofenac altogether, unless your doctor specifically says it’s needed. And especially in the last 20 weeks, NSAIDs like Diclofenac can cause serious problems for your baby’s heart or kidneys, and even lead to complications during pregnancy.

Also, Diclofenac should NOT be combined with misoprostol. This combo should never be taken during pregnancy, unless your doctor lets you know that it’s absolutely necessary for your health. If that happens, there are strict safety steps to follow:

• You’ll need a reliable form of birth control during treatment and for at least one full menstrual cycle afterwards.
• You must have a negative pregnancy blood test within 2 weeks before starting.
• And you’ll only start the medication on the 2nd or 3rd day of your next normal period.

Diclofenac isn’t recommended for anyone under 18.

Diclofenac has its place, but pregnancy is not the time to take chances. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it, especially if there’s even a tiny chance you might be pregnant.

What Side Effects Can This Medication Cause?

Like most medications, Diclofenac can have side effects, and they can range from mild annoyances to more serious health concerns. The key is knowing what to watch for so you can act quickly if something feels “off.”

If you notice anything unusual after taking Diclofenac, don’t ignore it. Get in touch with your doctor right away, and if symptoms feel severe or come on suddenly, seek emergency help.

Some side effects may include:

• Digestive issues like diarrhea, nausea, or loss of appetite.
• Swelling in the belly, feet, ankles, or lower legs.
• Unexplained weight gain or extreme tiredness.
• Breathing troubles, chest tightness, or a fast heartbeat.
• Itchy skin, rashes, hives, or swelling around the face, eyes, lips, tongue, throat, arms, or hands.
• Pain in the upper right side of your stomach, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (a possible sign of liver problems).
• Fever blisters, flu-like symptoms, or back pain.
• Pale skin or painful urination.

Some of these may be mild, but others could be signs of serious issues that need immediate medical attention. When you are in doubt, always get checked out, especially during pregnancy.

Whether you’re considering acetaminophen or wondering if any topical remedies are okay, you don’t have to navigate those worries alone. Our pharmacy team understands the unique journey of being pregnant and the delicate balance between managing pain and protecting your baby.

Once you’ve spoken with the team, you will have clarity and peace of mind. And when it feels right, they can even recommend quality products that are reliable and safe for use during pregnancy. Your well-being and trust mean everything to us. Schedule a teleconsultation now.

Remember, you’re not alone on this path. Pain during pregnancy is normal, but relief can (and should) be within reach.

Our teleconsult services offer expert, on-demand conversations with compassionate pharmacists who truly understand your concerns—and can steer you toward safe choices with confidence.

Treat yourself with kindness, and know we are ready to support you every step of the way.