Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking co-codamol for adults

Co-codamol and pregnancy

Co-codamol can be taken in pregnancy, although taking it long-term is not recommended.

Co-codamol contains paracetamol and codeine. Paracetamol is safe to take in pregnancy, but codeine can affect your baby.

If you take codeine at the end of pregnancy then there's a risk that your baby may become used to having codeine. They may be drowsy or have withdrawal symptoms after they're born. If this happens, your baby may need extra time in hospital for observation.

It's important to treat pain in pregnancy. If you have severe pain, co-codamol might sometimes be the best option. Your doctor can help you decide what's right for you and your baby.

Co-codamol and breastfeeding

Do not take co-codamol if you're breastfeeding.

Small amounts of the codeine in co-codamol get into breast milk. This could harm your baby, for example by causing breathing problems.

Paracetamol is the best painkiller to take if you're breastfeeding.

If you're breastfeeding and think you need co-codamol, discuss this with your doctor first. They can advise you on other pain relief options.

Co-codamol and fertility

Taking co-codamol for a short time at normal doses is unlikely to affect fertility in either men or women.

However, if you've been taking it for a long time or you're having difficulty in trying for a baby, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.