Overview

An antibiotic is a microbial drug used to treat bacterial infections. There are many infections during pregnancy, birth, or in the postpartum period that antibiotics may treat. Antibiotics are prescribed more than any other medications during pregnancy. Common conditions like urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics, cesarean sections are done with routine antibiotics, and antibiotics may be given to you or your baby after birth to treat or prevent infections. Despite the widespread use of antibiotics, there are risks and benefits of their use. Learn why antibiotics are prescribed during pregnancy, birth, or postpartum and the evidence on the risks and benefits of antibiotics.

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