Is It Safe to Take Antibiotics During Pregnancy? What Every Mom-to-Be Should Know
17 Feb 2025
Antibiotics and Pregnancy: Are They Safe?
Getting sick during pregnancy can be worrying, especially if you need medication. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, you may wonder whether they are safe for your baby. The good news is that some antibiotics are safe during pregnancy, while others should be avoided. The key is knowing which ones are safe and why taking antibiotics only when necessary is important.When Are Antibiotics Necessary During Pregnancy?
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, which, if left untreated, can pose serious risks to both mom and baby. Common pregnancy-related infections that may require antibiotics include:- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – Untreated UTIs can lead to kidney infections and increase the risk of preterm labor.
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) – Some pregnant women carry GBS bacteria, which can be passed to the baby during delivery. Antibiotics given during labor can help prevent infections in newborns.
- Bacterial respiratory infections – Such as pneumonia or strep throat.
- Certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – Such as chlamydia or syphilis, which require antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
Which Antibiotics Are Safe During Pregnancy?
Several antibiotics have been proven safe for pregnant women when used appropriately. These include: Penicillins (Amoxicillin, Ampicillin)Cephalosporins (Cephalexin, Cefuroxime)
Erythromycin
Clindamycin These antibiotics are commonly prescribed for infections during pregnancy and have been studied for safety.
Which Antibiotics Should Be Avoided?
Some antibiotics can cause birth defects or other complications and should only be used if absolutely necessary. These include: Tetracyclines (Doxycycline, Minocycline) – Can affect fetal bone and teeth development.Fluoroquinolones (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin) – May affect fetal cartilage and joint development.
Trimethoprim – Can interfere with folic acid, which is crucial for baby’s development. If you're prescribed an antibiotic, always double-check with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure it is pregnancy-safe.
Are Antibiotics Harmful to the Baby?
When taken as prescribed, most pregnancy-safe antibiotics do not harm the baby. However, taking antibiotics unnecessarily or using unsafe ones can lead to:- Birth defects (with unsafe antibiotics like tetracyclines).
- Altered gut bacteria in the baby (possible with excessive antibiotic use).
- Antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.
How to Take Antibiotics Safely During Pregnancy
If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic: Take the full course – Even if you feel better, finish the medication to fully clear the infection.Follow dosage instructions – Taking too much or too little can be harmful.
Ask about probiotics – Antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria, so consider eating yogurt or asking about safe probiotics.
Avoid self-medicating – Never take leftover antibiotics or someone else’s prescription.
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if:- You experience severe side effects (rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
- Your infection doesn’t improve after taking antibiotics.
- You’re unsure if a prescribed antibiotic is safe for pregnancy.
