benzocaine

This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.

Can taking benzocaine affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?

It is not known whether benzocaine use can make it harder to get pregnant. This question has not been studied, so it is best discussed with your healthcare provider.

Does taking benzocaine increase the risk of miscarriage?

Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. The fact sheet notes that studies have not been done to see if benzocaine can increase the chance of miscarriage, so any concerns should be reviewed with your healthcare provider.

Does taking benzocaine increase the risk of birth defects?

The fact sheet states that benzocaine has not been well studied in pregnancy, but when used as directed, very little is expected to be absorbed through the skin. Two reports did not find a greater chance of birth defects in children of women who used benzocaine in the first trimester. Decisions about use should be made together with your healthcare provider.

Can taking benzocaine during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?

According to the fact sheet, studies have not been done to see if benzocaine can increase the chance of pregnancy-related problems such as preterm delivery or low birth weight. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual situation.

Can taking benzocaine during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?

The fact sheet states that studies have not been done to see if benzocaine can increase the chance of behavior or learning issues for the child. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh what is known and unknown.

Is it safe to breastfeed while taking benzocaine?

Benzocaine has not been well studied during breastfeeding. The fact sheet notes that it is not recommended to apply benzocaine to the breasts or nipples because of the risk of a serious blood disorder if the baby ingests it; if it is not applied to those areas and the baby does not get it in their mouth, topical use is unlikely to affect a breastfed baby, and washing hands well after use is advised. Discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider.

Source: National Library of Medicine