Muscle pain creams and pregnancy

Hala2010

I had an awful leg ache from walking around all day, and as I usually did pre-pregnancy, used a muscle rub on the affected areas. Then DH realised I was pregnant (20 weeks), looked up the active ingredient (methyl salicylate), and started freaking out. Something about an ounce being equal to a whole lot of aspirin, and was toxic for the baby/ could lead to malformations etc. I ended up washing it off 10 minutes after it was put on. Has anyone had any experience with this, and how did it turn out? I believe many muscle pain relievers (eg. Bengay) have the same active ingredient.   

Kayte317

My OB told me that IcyHot was safe to use (the active ingredient is the Menthyl Salicylate).  She said not to put on on my belly but on the rest of my body was fine.  I wouldn't recommend coating it everywhere but a spot or two that hurts should be fine.  From what I've read (I was nervous about using it too) you really have to put a TON of it on for it to be an issue.  So relax and I hope you feel better!