REALITY OF SELF-MEDICATION IN PREGNANCY: Pregnant women use self-medication readily. Such behavior must not be overlooked by physicians and midwives during pregnancy. More epidemiology data would be useful. IATROGENIC RISKS: Drug toxicity, generally related to the advancement of somatic development of the embryo and fetus, can appear at variable stages during pregnancy. Moreover, the pharmacokinetic properties of drugs are different during pregnancy. These facts must be taken into account when assessing the risk of uncontrolled drug use by pregnant women. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PREGNANT WOMEN: Obstetricians, midwives and primary care physicians caring for pregnant women should explain the risks of self-medication. The specific features of disease during pregnancy should be considered when giving relevant information.