Medicines that can affect pregnancy
Important safety information for patients of childbearing potential currently prescribed teratogenic medicines.
This page is relevant if you take
Amber medicines require a formal pregnancy prevention programme (PPP) — see below.
Why we are contacting you
These medicines are known as teratogenic — this means they can increase the risk of birth defects and developmental disorders in an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. The risk is highest in the first trimester (up to week 12), which is often before a person knows they are pregnant.
We want to make sure you have all the information you need to stay safe. Please read this page carefully, and contact us if you have any questions.
Do not stop taking your medicine without speaking to a healthcare professional first. Stopping suddenly can be harmful. We are here to help you find the safest way forward for your individual circumstances.
Contraception advice
Whilst taking one of these medicines, it is strongly recommended that you use highly effective contraception. No method is 100% reliable, but some are significantly more effective than others.
Recommended methods
- IUD (copper coil)
- IUS (hormonal coil)
- Contraceptive implant
- Female sterilisation
- Male sterilisation (vasectomy)
Add condoms if using
- Combined pill
- Progestogen-only pill (mini pill)
- Contraceptive injection
Not recommended on their own: Condoms alone, withdrawal method, or fertility awareness methods do not provide sufficient protection when taking teratogenic medicines.
You should continue to use effective contraception for the recommended period even after stopping your medicine. Speak to a healthcare professional for advice specific to your medication.
Pregnancy prevention programme (PPP)
Required for sodium valproate and topiramate
If you take sodium valproate or topiramate, a formal Pregnancy Prevention Programme (PPP) must be in place. This is a structured agreement between you and a healthcare professional — either your specialist or your GP — to ensure you are fully informed of the risks and have access to highly effective contraception.
Your PPP is reviewed annually. If you do not currently have one in place, or have questions about it, please contact the practice as soon as possible.
What to do
- Continue using effective contraception for as long as you are taking a teratogenic medicine, and for the recommended period after stopping.
- If you are planning a pregnancy, contact us before you stop using contraception. We can review your treatment options with you and make any necessary referrals.
- If you think you may already be pregnant, contact the practice as soon as possible — do not stop your medicine without advice.
- If you would like to review your contraception, our nursing team can arrange an appointment to discuss your options.
Further information
BUMPS — Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (medicinesinpregnancy.org) NHS contraception guide — nhs.uk/contraception MHRA Drug Safety Update — gov.uk/drug-safety-updateContact Wilmslow Health Centre
Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5HX
If you have any concerns about your medication or contraception, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are here to support you.
