The British Pharmacological Society’s recent position statement on medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding has received strong national media attention, helping to bring greater public and professional focus to the need for more inclusive research.
The statement, which calls for clearer guidance, improved risk communication and the routine inclusion of pregnant and breastfeeding women in clinical research, was covered by PA media, ensuring widespread national reach through its syndicated network. Further coverage followed in the Independent and the Times, with reporting reflecting the key messages and expert perspectives shared by the Society. Our story was also featured on LBC, in the BMJ, in the Pharmaceutical Journal and had a positive response from the NHS Health Research Authority.
Our story also attracted interest from BBC Radio 4, with Professor Catriona Waitt invited to speak on World at One, and Dr Emma Magavern interviewed on Woman’s Hour. Both appearances were an excellent opportunity to highlight the power of research, and to bring the work of the Society – and the discipline of pharmacology – into public awareness.
The media interest followed a Science Media Centre press briefing, where BPS experts set out why longstanding gaps in evidence continue to create uncertainty for women who rely on medicines during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Speakers at the briefing included Professor Catriona Waitt, Dr Emma Magavern, and Dr Anita Banerjee, who highlighted the importance of balancing the risks of medicines with the risks of untreated illness, and the need for more inclusive and representative research.
The British Pharmacological Society will continue to work with researchers, clinicians, regulators and policymakers to improve evidence, guidance and confidence around the use of medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
If you are working in this area, the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (BJCP) currently has a call for papers on medications in pregnancy, which is open until 20 June 2026. We encourage and look forward to your submissions.
Read the full BPS position statement on medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and learn about the working group behind it.
