Studies have not been performed regarding any potential link between anti-inflammatory drugs and health problems for pregnant women or their unborn children. However, anti-inflammatory drugs may cause unwanted effects on the heart or blood flow of a fetus or newborn baby when they are taken during the last few months of pregnancy.

Studies on animals have revealed that anti-inflammatory drugs taken late in pregnancy may prolong labor or cause other problems during delivery. In addition, animal studies have shown that some anti-inflammatory drugs may cause birth defects. For these reasons, women should consult with their physician before taking anti-inflammatories during pregnancy.

Some anti-inflammatory drugs pass into breast milk and may cause unwanted effects in a nursing baby. Women are generally discouraged from using anti-inflammatory drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding.