Antibiotics in 1st trimester

valleyvice

I'm 6 weeks and had a routine urine analysis done last week, only to learn that there was bacteria in my urine, consistent with a bladder infection. I've been completely asymptomatic, and was surprised to learn this. My doc prescribed me Keflex, and insisted the risks were minimal to none, but that it's better to kill the bacteria then risk getting a more serious kidney infection (which could then require more aggressive treatment and could have greater risks). This is my first viable pregnancy and I'm worried.

Has anyone taken antibiotics during their first trimester in prior pregnancies, without adverse effects?!?!

I feel like I have no choice in the matter and have to take the meds, but I guess I'm just looking for reassurance. Any insight would be really appreciated! Thanks ladies!

EasterEggs

I have not, but it's common for pregnant women to suffer UTIs and treat them at any stage of pregnancy. Your doctor is right that it is more important to treat the infection and that the risks are very minimal. Don't worry about it!

Mariadot

Yes I did in my last pregnancy. I got UTIs in all three trimesters and took antibiotics each time to cure it. I also took them already this pregnancy at 4 weeks pregnant because I had a bacterial infection. I think it's important to treat the infection before it gets worse like your doctor said! I had an untreated UTI at 27 weeks last time and ended up in labor and delivery for a few days. Take them!

Allison7

I didnt take antibiotics in my last pregnancy, but if a urine culture came back with a bladder infection I would take the antibiotics. I know someone who had an an infection go to her kidneys (she had no symptoms until she collapsed in the bathroom) and a serious kidney infection is not something I would want to be dealing with while pregnant. I think the kidney infection would pose a much greater risk to the baby.

BostonBaby1

I'm in the camp that if the benefit outweighs the risk, you should go ahead and take what your doctor prescribed rather than risk having a more complicated infection. Feel better soon!

valleyvice

@EasterEggs @Allison7 @bostonbaby1 @mariadot Thank you for your responses! I know my hands are tied and I gotta take the meds, but every little thing I'm exposed to makes me nervous these days. I just want to have a healthy and uneventful pregnancy, so I'm not too excited about having to take antibiotics this early in the game. Here goes!! Thanks again!

Taymiller

Do what your doctor says to do, they are smart people. I was on antibiotics (strong ones that said don't take when pregnant) when I found out I was pregnant and then had to take them third trimester for a uti. My kid turned out great and my pregnancy was very uneventful.

valleyvice

@Taymiller so glad everything turned out well. thats exactly what I needed to hear! Thank you

MrsRo731

OP, I was on antibiotics during the 1st trimester or my last pregnancy. I was having really bad sinus infections and was sooo miserable. I would trust what your doctor says. Hope you feel better soon!

Lchase04

I had strep throat during the first tri of my last pregnancy and on antibiotics for 2 weeks - my daughter is now 2yo and perfectly healthy. I have a pretty bad cold now and my OB approved any antibiotics my primary prescribes...they know when the risks are too high and won't prescribe anything dangerous. Better to take it then possible reap the repercussions of getting a worse infection. Good luck! 

noelietrex

This is my first pregnancy too but I have a history of UTIs, bladder infections, and kidney infections. I'm seeing a hippy dippy midwife and she said they will monitor closely and put me on antibiotics if needed because it's MUCH harder and riskier to treat a kidney infection than a UTI. She also said there is no natural cure for UTIs that would be safe or worth the risk during pregnancy, and that we want to be smart about these things. If/when it comes up for me, I'll be taking the antibiotics. It's definitely sound advice and the least risky avenue.

mthompson1414

For all the moms that posted about UTIs during pregnancy- I'm quite sure I have one (had 1 about 2 months ago) and am 6w1d. I'm calling the doctor in the morning, should I call my OB or general dr? Is there a way you all found that can prevent them as well? I'm starting to feel miserable.

BostonBaby1

mthompson1414 said:

For all the moms that posted about UTIs during pregnancy- I'm quite sure I have one (had 1 about 2 months ago) and am 6w1d. I'm calling the doctor in the morning, should I call my OB or general dr? Is there a way you all found that can prevent them as well? I'm starting to feel miserable.

Strangely enough, I got my first UTI ever on Friday. I called my OB. I hope you feel better soon!

BakerBird525

I'm currently taking antibiotics (amoxicillin) for an upper respiratory infection. Which the doc says is safe during pregnancy. Do what your doctor says. I feel completely fine (aside from the infection) taking them - no side effects. It's better to take it if your doc thinks you need to, than to not and have the issue potentially get worse.

@mthompson1414: I think you can go to your general doctor for a UTI, but I could be wrong. You could always call your general doc (PCP) first to check. Might be faster to get an appt with them than with the OB.

Puddles03

Your doctor will weigh the pros and cons and wouldn't put your child in harms way. In regards to the UTI's see if your doctor can prescribe or recommend a good probiotic or eat tons of yogurt!