Final answer:
Certain antibiotics, including tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides, and TMP/SMZ, are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. Macrolides like erythromycin may be safer, but healthcare providers should be consulted. An antibiogram aids in prescribing safe and effective antibiotics for expectant mothers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Antibiotics Contraindicated During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, certain antibiotics are contraindicated due to potential risks to the developing fetus. Some of the antibiotics to be avoided include tetracyclines (such as doxycycline and tetracycline), fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMZ) due to various adverse effects on fetal development, such as bone growth inhibition and teeth discoloration.
Macrolides like erythromycin are typically considered safer, though clarification from a healthcare provider is always recommended.
Prescribers often refer to an antibiogram to select safe and effective antibiotics and avoid those that are not recommended during pregnancy. This compilation of antimicrobial susceptibilities for local bacterial strains helps guide the prescription of appropriate empiric antibacterial therapy.
Antibiotics like nitrofurantoin and azithromycin are sometimes considered safe under certain circumstances, but healthcare professionals will weigh the benefits against possible risks before prescribing them to pregnant women.
It's important to note that treating infections effectively during pregnancy is crucial to avoid harm to both the mother and the baby. However, this must be done with antibiotics that do not pose significant risks to the fetus.
Each case needs to be evaluated individually by a healthcare provider who can provide information on which medications are safe to use.