A link between birth defects and certain antibiotics commonly used to treat urinary tract infections has been found according to research funded by the CDC. The drugs associated with the birth defects were Thiosulfil Forte, Bactrim, Furadantin and Macrobid. Urinary tract infections can be quite common in pregnancy. Fortunately, there are other antibiotics available that are not associated with increased risk of birth defects. An untreated urinary tract infection can lead much more serious complications.
Birth defects linked to sulfa drugs, such as Thiosulfil Forte and Bactrim, included rare brain and heart problems, and shortened limbs. Defects linked to nitrofurantoins, such as Furadantin and Macrobid, included heart problems and cleft palate. Though the drugs seemed to double or triple the risk, the risks are still quite small. Interestingly enough, Macrobid is commonly used to treat recurrent urinary tract infections. A small dose is given throughout the pregnancy up until about 36 weeks. It has already been known that an ingredient in Bactrim blocks the effects of folic acid.
Up until this point, there hasn’t been much research done on the effects of antibiotics. As a result, it can be expected that many doctors will change their course of treatment as a result of these new findings. If you are diagnosed with a urinary tract infection during your pregnancy, it may be beneficial to express your concern about antibiotics with your doctor when discussing treatment. Experts always stress the importance of being your own advocate when it comes to your health. If you feel uncomfortable taking sulfa or nitrofurantoins (the two types of antibiotics associated with the birth defects), your doctor should respect that and use an alternate form of treatment, even if he or she feels that the risk is small enough.
Certain antibiotics should definitely be avoided during pregnancy: streptomycin, which can cause hearing loss in your baby, and tetracycline, which can discolor your baby’s teeth.