Will Taking Antibiotics While Pregnant Give My Baby Allergies?
Yes, there is a link between taking antibiotics during pregnancy and the child developing allergies. A study assessed this in over 70,000 women and concluded there is a small risk of increased pre-school asthma, wheezing and conjunctivitis but not food allergies, dermatitis or eczema.
This could be due to the ‘hygiene hypothesis,’ which states if children are not exposed to germs as much, their immune system has no need to build up a defence, leading to an increased risk of allergies.
The RCOG guidelines stipulate it is important to balance the risk of the infection to the mother against the smaller risk of allergies in a baby. In some cases, it may be beneficial to treat the infection which, if left untreated can cause worse consequences.
Do Antibiotics in Pregnancy Damage My Baby's Immune System?
Yes, antibiotics can affect the baby’s immune system if taken during pregnancy. Everyone has what is known as gut microbiota - this is the microorganisms that naturally live in the stomach which help with digestion and are good for the immune system.
When taken during pregnancy, antibiotics can affect this microbiota which can then affect how well the immune system develops
Are Natural Alternatives to Antibiotics Safer During Pregnancy?
No, natural alternatives are not safer and in fact may be more dangerous. The MHRA states pregnant women should avoid unlicensed herbal products, as there are many risks involved, such as contaminated products, toxic ingredients and not enough safety information available.
Should I Stop Antibiotics Early to Protect My Baby from Allergies?
No, you should not stop antibiotics early under any circumstances. Completing the course ensures you get rid of the whole infection, preventing it from recurring and making it more difficult to treat later.
During pregnancy, it is important to ensure you get rid of the whole infection as the risk this would pose if left untreated could significantly outweigh the risk of allergies in a baby.
