Salicylic acid

[Dr. A]

Is topical salicylic acid either used as a wash that is rinsed off or used as a cream likely safe for pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester? The motherisk website (motherisk.org/prof/updatesDetail.jsp?content_id=946) concludes that it is unlikely to pose any risk to a developing baby. However another source I checked stated that salicylic acid is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester due to reported teratogenic and other effects with aspirin and other salicylates. One concern raised is the effects of prostaglandin inhibition on the fetus and the potential for bleeding complications with administration of a salicylate. Do you think topical salicylic acid either used as a wash that is rinsed off or used as a cream likely safe for pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester?

P.S.
Thank you for the very helpful infantrisk.com/content/acne-treatment website.

[admin]

Dear Dr. A

Topical application can result in high concentrations of salicylates in the fetal plasma. Long term salicylate use may be associated with stillbirth, postpartum bleeding, and low birth weight. The use of any salicylate is not recommended during the last trimester, as administration may cause inhibition of fetal prostaglandin synthesis, which in turn may lead to a number of adverse effects. Antepartum and postpartum bleeding may also occur after administration of salicylates close to the date of birth. Furthermore the use of salicylates during the last week of pregnancy may carry a heightened risk of intracranial hemorrhage.

Tassneem Abdel Karim, MD
InfantRisk Center

[Marimar2]

It is a NO NO for salicylic acid.It is a strong chemical that might affect the developing baby even if it topical. Better stop it now.