Can I Take Antibiotics When Pregnant?
If you have been prescribed antibiotics during pregnancy, or are wondering whether to take a course you already have at home, the answer depends on which antibiotic it is. Some are considered safe throughout pregnancy; others carry known risks and should be avoided. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are pregnant before starting any antibiotic.
Quick Answer
Antibiotics in pregnancy: Some antibiotics are safe in pregnancy (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins). Others should be avoided (e.g., tetracyclines). Always tell your doctor you're pregnant when prescribed antibiotics.
Is It Safe to Take Antibiotics in Pregnancy?
Antibiotics are not a single category — they cover a wide range of medicines with different mechanisms and different safety profiles in pregnancy. The key is knowing which type you have been prescribed.Generally considered safe in pregnancy:
- Penicillins (e.g., amoxicillin, ampicillin) — among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in pregnancy and well studied.
- Cephalosporins (e.g., cefalexin) — widely used and considered low risk.
- Erythromycin — often used as an alternative when penicillin allergy is present, though your doctor will choose the specific form carefully.
- Nitrofurantoin — used for urinary tract infections in pregnancy, though usually avoided very close to term.
Antibiotics to avoid in pregnancy:
- Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline) — can affect bone and tooth development in the baby.
- Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin) — generally avoided due to concerns about developing cartilage.
- Trimethoprim — typically avoided in the first trimester; discuss with your GP if prescribed later in pregnancy.
- Metronidazole — used cautiously; some formulations are avoided in the first trimester.
- Chloramphenicol — avoided due to potential risks to the baby.
This is a general guide only. Your GP or midwife will choose the antibiotic that is most appropriate for your specific infection and stage of pregnancy.
NHS Guidance
The NHS advises that you should always check with a healthcare professional before taking any medication in pregnancy — including antibiotics. Some infections that require antibiotics, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), group B Streptococcus, and bacterial vaginosis, are actually more important to treat during pregnancy than outside of it, because untreated infections can pose risks to both mother and baby.If you are diagnosed with an infection during pregnancy, do not delay seeking treatment out of concern about the antibiotic. Leaving a bacterial infection untreated is often more harmful than taking an appropriate antibiotic. Your GP will prescribe the safest option for your stage of pregnancy.
You should always complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if you feel better before finishing. Stopping early can allow the infection to return and may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Alternatives
In most cases, there is no safe alternative to antibiotics for treating a genuine bacterial infection. Rest, fluids, and paracetamol can relieve symptoms such as fever and discomfort, but they will not clear the underlying infection.If you are concerned about a specific antibiotic you have been offered, speak to your GP rather than simply not taking it. They may be able to prescribe a different antibiotic with a more established safety record in pregnancy if clinically appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
### What if I already took antibiotics before knowing I was pregnant?Don't panic. Taking a short course of antibiotics before you knew you were pregnant is unlikely to cause harm, particularly if it was a commonly prescribed type such as amoxicillin. Contact your GP or midwife for reassurance, and make sure to mention it at your booking appointment so it can be noted in your maternity records.
Can I buy antibiotics over the counter while pregnant?
Antibiotics are prescription-only medicines in the UK — you cannot legally buy them over the counter at a pharmacy. If you think you need antibiotics, you will need to see your GP, call NHS 111, or attend an urgent treatment centre. Always tell the prescribing clinician that you are pregnant so they can select the safest option.
Do I need to tell my midwife if I finish a course of antibiotics?
Yes, it is good practice to mention any medication you take during pregnancy at your next midwife appointment. Your midwife can add it to your notes and advise on any follow-up if needed.
Speak to your midwife or GP with any concerns about medication during pregnancy — they are the best people to advise based on your specific situation.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Last reviewed: June 2026
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