by Claudia Boyd-Barrett posted in Pregnancy

Although it?s important to seek treatment if you get an infection during pregnancy, you may want to avoid certain antibiotics that could increase the risk of birth defects, a new study warns.
Researchers in Canada studied nearly 140,000 births between 1998 and 2008. They looked at what type of antibiotics ? if any - moms took during the first trimester, and at whether their babies were diagnosed with birth defects during their first year of life.
 
The researchers, who published their findings in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, found that five types of antibiotics slightly increased the risk of birth defects, such as heart and skeletal malformations. These were: ? Clindamycin
? Doxycycline
? Quinolones
? Macrolides
? Phenoxymethylpenicillin
Three other types of antibiotics were not associated with increased birth defect risk, and the researchers suggested these are a safer option for pregnant women.
? Amoxicillin
? Nitrofurantoin
? Cephalosporins
Infections are common during pregnancy, and not treating them can also put your baby's health at risk. It?s important to talk with your doctor about what type of treatment is best and safest for your situation.

Have you had to take antibiotics during pregnancy" Did you discuss safety concerns with your doctor"

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