Antibiotic Treatment During Pregnancy

Antibiotic Treatment During Pregnancy

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QUESTION: During a regular check up for my pregnancy, my doctor discovered
bacteria in my urine. Though I have no symptoms, my physician claims that it
must be treated and wants to use an antibiotic. I am against all medicining
during the time I am carrying the baby, and feel he is being over cautious.
May I have your opinion, please?
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ANSWER: Your point of view that resists medications of any kind during early
pregnancy is a fine one, and I wish more mothers-to-be understood the
principles. However, your physician is aware of the dangers of urinary
infection to both you and your baby, and is not merely playing it safe but is
most wise in his advice to you. During your pregnancy your body undergoes
many changes, including alterations in both the structure and function of your
urinary system. Urinary tract infections can be far more dangerous now than
under other conditions, and can lead to a condition called pyelonephritis
which is one of the most frequent reasons that pregnant women require hospital
care. Though you may have no symptoms now, if left untreated, symptoms can
develop 30 to 40% of the time. Your physician has a wide choice of
medications that can be used. Penicillins, cephalosporins and erythromycin
type medications are considered safe. Others, such as sulfonamides,
nitrofurantoin, metronidazole, aminoglycosides and isoniazid may be used with
caution. I doubt that your doctor will chose a tetracycline or
chloramphenicol, which are contraindicated for you. His choice will depend
upon the type of infection you have as well as your own sensitivities,
tolerance to the medication, and any possible allergies to medications.
Though you are to be complimented on your caution, this is one time when your
physician's advice is right in line with the best of current medical practice
for situations such as yours, and should be carefully followed.