Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised against taking the pain medication, Tramadol. The pain relieving drug has been given a pregnancy Class C rating by the FDA. A C rating means the drug is believed to carry serious risks, but has not been thoroughly tested. Tramadol is only used in cases when the use of the pain reliever provides extensive benefits that outweigh the risks.

There have been studies conducted on the effects of the drug when given to pregnant animals. Studies involving human subjects are lacking and do not provide enough evidence to support the use of Tramadol during a pregnancy. The exact risks to the unborn child are not clear. The pain reliever has been used during the labor process, but is not approved for this particular use.

Tramadol can cause serious birth defects and even death of the infant. Babies who have been exposed to Tramadol may suffer severe withdrawal complications as well. Women who are breastfeeding are advised against using Tramadol. Although, the actual amount of the drug passed through the breast milk is very minimal. Tramadol is only recommended to those pregnant and breastfeeding women who absolutely must have it.