Rogaine & Pregnancy

Rogaine, also known as minoxidil topical, is a medication that helps treat hair loss. It is unknown how Rogaine works, but it may dilate blood vessels to stimulate hair growth. This medication is typically used for male pattern baldness and can be used on both men and women. The safety of using Rogaine during pregnancy is undetermined, so be sure to ask your doctor before using it if you are pregnant.

A pregnant woman is laying on a couch. (Image: Umkehrer/iStock/Getty Images)

Pregnancy Hair Loss

Hair loss typically occurs after pregnancy while your hormones are returning to the levels they were before pregnancy. Hair loss during pregnancy is unusual, according to the American Pregnancy Association, and, if it occurs, may be due to a vitamin deficiency. Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables while you are pregnant and talk to your doctor if you experience hair loss. Your doctor can help you determine the best method of treatment.

Rogaine Safety

Drugs.com states that Rogaine is in the FDA's category C. This means that it is unknown whether or not Rogaine can harm an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. Your doctor will have to determine whether you should use the medication.

Before Pregnancy

It is important to talk to your doctor before using Rogaine if you there is a possibility that you could become pregnant while using the medication. If you are using Rogaine and then become pregnant, it could cause harm to the baby. Based on your situation, you may or may not be able to use Rogaine if there is a possibility that you could become pregnant.

Side Effects

It is possible to have an allergic reaction to Rogaine, which can consist of difficulty breathing and swelling of the lips or tongue. Other serious side effects include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, dizziness and fainting. These effects can be dangerous for both you and the unborn baby and should be taken into consideration when deciding if you should use the medication.

Considerations

If your doctor instructs you to use Rogaine during pregnancy, be sure to follow his instructions. Do not apply Rogaine to your scalp if you have skin problems, irritation or sunburn in the area. This can cause the medication to be absorbed into your body.