Ketorolac Pregnancy: Is It Safe? What You Need to Know

When you're pregnant and in pain, finding safe relief isn't easy. Ketorolac, a potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) sold under the brand name Toradol. Also known as toradol, it's powerful for short-term pain relief—but its use during pregnancy comes with serious warnings. The FDA and major medical groups advise against using ketorolac after 20 weeks of pregnancy because it can cause problems with fetal heart development and reduce amniotic fluid. Even before that, doctors usually avoid it unless there's no other option.

Most pregnant women need pain relief at some point—back pain, headaches, or postpartum discomfort. But not all painkillers are equal. NSAIDs, a class of drugs that includes ibuprofen, naproxen, and ketorolac work by blocking inflammation, but they also affect prostaglandins, which are crucial for fetal circulation and kidney function. Toradol, the brand name for ketorolac, is especially strong and typically used in hospitals for severe pain, not everyday aches. That’s why it’s rarely prescribed during pregnancy at all. If you’re already taking it and find out you’re pregnant, don’t panic—but talk to your doctor right away. They’ll help you switch to safer options like acetaminophen, which is generally considered the go-to pain reliever during pregnancy.

What about earlier in pregnancy? Some studies suggest NSAIDs taken in the first trimester might slightly raise the risk of miscarriage, though the evidence isn’t clear-cut. Still, most OB-GYNs prefer to avoid any unnecessary risk. If you’re dealing with chronic pain or a condition like arthritis, your doctor can help you find alternatives that won’t harm your baby. Physical therapy, heat packs, or even prenatal yoga might be part of your plan. And if you’re in severe pain after delivery—say, after a C-section—ketorolac might be used briefly under strict supervision, but even then, it’s not the first choice.

Below, you’ll find real-world insights from posts that dig into how ketorolac compares to other pain relievers, what the research says about NSAIDs in pregnancy, and how to manage pain safely when you’re expecting. These aren’t theoretical opinions—they’re practical, evidence-based guides from people who’ve been there. Whether you’re trying to avoid medication altogether or just need to understand your options, this collection gives you the facts without the fluff.