Pune: Vinita, a 32-year-old woman from Pune, would have been a mother to a bonny baby. But she did not know well to divulge her acne treatment to the gynaecologist and eventually terminated a long-awaited pregnancy.
Vinita (name changed) had struggled with severe acne. It was further complicated by polycystic ovary syndrome, a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. She was prescribed retinol to manage her acne. The said drug is a potent medication known for its effectiveness, but also its risks. Little did she know that the treatment would change her life, forever.
It was while on retinol medication that she and her husband learnt of her pregnancy. Sadly, their happiness was short-lived. During a routine sonography, doctors discovered the baby had severe anomalies — likely linked to Vinita’s use of retinol. The devastating news left them with no choice but to end the pregnancy.
Vinita’s tragic experience underscored a critical message — women must disclose their pregnancy plans or status to all healthcare providers, including dermatologists, dentists, and orthopaedists. Furthermore, keeping a gynaecologist informed about any medications taken was essential.
Medications are classified into five categories — A, B, C, D, and X — based on its safety during pregnancy. Category A and B drugs were generally considered safe, while category D and X drugs were contraindicated and should not be used. Retinol falls into category D-X, making it unsafe for pregnant women.
Senior gynaecologist Dr Sanjay Gupte emphasised the importance of the classification system. “Drugs in categories A and B are backed by extensive studies showing they do not harm the baby or cause birth defects. It is crucial for expecting mothers and their families to understand that safe options are available,” he said.
Vinita’s ordeal was avoidable had an alternative acne treatment been used. Many safer options were available, allowing her to manage her skin condition and not jeopardise her pregnancy.
“Up to eight weeks of pregnancy are critical. It is when a baby’s organs are forming and any harmful medication can have severe consequences. Strict monitoring and informed decision-making are vital during this time,” Gupte said.
All doctors should be cautious while prescribing medicines in the post-ovulation phase to any woman since she could be pregnant without knowing.
“Doctors should ask women patients regarding such a possibility. Besides adverse effects of some common medicines, significant X ray exposure can also be harmful during pregnancy,” he added.
There was a concerning trend where women and families opted to terminate pregnancies if a woman had to take antibiotics due to an infection. “The fear is unfounded. However, the action is rampant since people fear antibiotics will jeopardise the foetus’s health. Public education is key,” said senior physician Dr Narendra Javadekar.
Gupte said, “The drugs in category A and B are completely safe, with studies proving these don’t cause harm to the baby. Terminating a pregnancy out of fear of these drugs’ effects is unnecessary.”
The message was clear: always communicate your pregnancy intentions to your healthcare providers and ensure your gynaecologist was aware of all medications being taken. The simple step could prevent heartbreak and safeguard the mother and baby’s health, experts said.
