Antibiotics For UTIs in Pregnancy - What You Need To Know - GoodRx

24/9/22, 2:39 Antibiotics for UTIs in Pregnancy: What You Need to Know - GoodRx
Home chevron_right Health Conditions chevron_right Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

What Can I Take for a Urinary Tract Infection While I’m
Pregnant?
Written by Nicole E. Cieri-Hutcherson, PharmD, BCPS, NCMP | Reviewed by Amy B. Gragnolati, PharmD, BCPS
Published on March 15, 2022
Key takeaways:
During pregnancy, you may be screened for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Even if
you don’t have symptoms, you’ll likely be prescribed an antibiotic to treat it.
Amoxicillin and cephalexin (Keflex) are usually the first-choice antibiotics for a UTI
during pregnancy.
Other antibiotics might be used as second-choice options, but only at certain times
during pregnancy. Some antibiotics aren’t safe at any point during pregnancy.
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/urinary-tract-infection/antibiotics-uti-in-pregnancy 1/22
FatCamera/iStock via Getty Image
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract, most often the
bladder. As your uterus grows during pregnancy, it can push on the bladder and block urine
from leaving. When urine can’t leave the bladder normally, it raises the risk for infection. This
risk for UTIs is greatest during weeks 6 to 24 of pregnancy.
Your healthcare provider may screen you for UTIs at your prenatal visits. If there’s bacteria in
your urine, you’ll likely be prescribed an antibiotic, even if you don’t have UTI symptoms. If
left untreated, bacteria can travel to your kidneys and cause pyelonephritis. This infection is
much more serious than a bladder infection. UTIs in pregnancy can also raise the risk of low
birth weight and premature delivery. Treating a UTI with antibiotics can lower these risks.
In this article, we’ll talk about safe and unsafe antibiotics for UTIs in pregnancy, and we’ll
review some ways that can help you prevent UTIs.
What UTI medications are safe during pregnancy?

Most UTIs are caused by bacteria. So they’re usually treated with antibiotics. It’s important to
finish all of the antibiotic doses prescribed to you, even if you start to feel better. If you don't
finish your antibiotics, you may be at risk for a future infection that’s resistant (immune) to
common UTI medications.
There are a few antibiotics for UTIs that are considered safe during pregnancy.
Penicillins
Amoxicillin and ampicillin are part of the penicillin family of antibiotics. They’re first-choice
antibiotics for UTIs during pregnancy. Amoxicillin is much more commonly used because
many bacteria are resistant to ampicillin.
Sometimes, healthcare providers may prescribe a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic
acid. Clavulanic acid is a medication that can help make amoxicillin more effective against
UTI bacteria. Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (Augmentin) is generally considered safe in
pregnancy.
These penicillin family medications are usually taken 2 to 3 times per day for 3 to 7 days.
Cephalosporins
Cephalosporins, such as cephalexin (Keflex), may also be a first-choice antibiotic for UTIs.
They’re generally considered safe throughout pregnancy as well. Cephalexin may be taken 2
to 4 times per day for 3 to 7 days. Other cephalosporins, such as cefuroxime and
cefpodoxime, may also be used.
What UTI medications are not safe during pregnancy?
Some UTI antibiotics aren’t safe when you’re pregnant. Or they might only be safe at certain
times during a pregnancy.
Nitrofurantoin
Although nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) may be prescribed during pregnancy, there’s mixed data
on how safe it is during the first trimester. So it’s recommended to avoid this antibiotic during
early pregnancy — unless it’s the only option. It can be used safely in the second trimester
and most of the third trimester.
However, nitrofurantoin should be avoided at the very end of a pregnancy. Studies have
found that taking it during the last 30 days of pregnancy may raise the risk of infant jaundice
after birth.
Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim
Like nitrofurantoin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim) has conflicting information on

how safe it is in the first trimester. It’s typically avoided during pregnancy unless there are no
other options.
Sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim shouldn’t be taken at the very end of pregnancy either.
Taking it at this time can cause a serious condition called kernicterus. This is a severe form
of infant jaundice that can cause swelling around the brain. In rare cases, kernicterus can be
fatal.
The trimethoprim ingredient in this medication blocks the effects of folic acid in the body.
Folic acid is important for helping an unborn baby develop properly. Taking trimethoprim
during pregnancy raises the risk of several birth defects. If your healthcare provider
prescribes this medication, you may need extra folic acid supplements.
Fluoroquinolones
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin might be used for UTIs when
you aren't pregnant. But they aren't often used during pregnancy because they have a risk of
causing birth defects. Some studies have reported that these risks are low because the
medications are only taken for a few days. But many healthcare providers try to avoid
prescribing them when possible.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics would likely only be used if there are no alternatives. Example
situations may include if you get UTIs often, or if the bacteria growing can only be killed by
fluoroquinolones.
What are other things I can do to treat a UTI while I’m

pregnant?
Antibiotics are needed to treat a UTI. But you might be wondering if there is anything you
can do to relieve your symptoms while you wait for the antibiotic to start working.
Phenazopyridine (AZO) is a medication that’s used to relieve UTI symptoms. It can help
relieve feelings of burning, frequency, and urgency. In studies, phenazopyridine wasn’t linked
to any birth defects. So it’s generally considered safe to use. It’s important to remember that
this medication doesn’t cure the infection. But it can help you feel more comfortable.
There are also several things that could help prevent UTIs from happening while you’re
pregnant:
Stay hydrated
Eat a healthy diet
Limit caffeine and sugar
Avoid alcohol
Urinate as soon as you feel the need to

Empty your bladder completely each time you urinate
Urinate before and after sex
Avoid sex while being treated for a UTI
Keep your genital area clean
Wipe front to back when using the bathroom.
Use mild soap and water to clean the genital area
Avoid tight fitting pants
Wear cotton underwear
Don't soak in a bath for longer than 30 minutes in a day or more than twice a day
Keep in mind that you could do all of these things and still develop a UTI. If it seems like
you’re continuing to get UTIs, speak with your healthcare provider.
The bottom line

Pregnant people are regularly screened for UTIs. These infections raise the risk of
kidney infections and premature birth. Thankfully, there are safe options when it comes
to taking antibiotics for UTIs in pregnancy.
Amoxicillin and cephalexin are usually the first-choice UTI antibiotics. Other antibiotics
might be used, but only at certain times during pregnancy. Some are avoided whenever
possible. No matter what you’re prescribed, remember to finish all your UTI antibiotics,
even if your symptoms start to improve.
References
American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Urinary tract infection during pregnancy.
Delzell, J. E., et al. (2000). Urinary tract infections during pregnancy. American Family Physician.
View All References (6) expand_more
GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations,
governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about
how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
Was this page helpful?

thumb_up_ thumb_down_
Learn more about Urinary Tract Infections

Stay informed, and get prescription saving tips and more from GoodRx Health.
Email address Subscribe
By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages
from GoodRx.
Related Articles
See more about Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
U i T tI f ti i Kid S
https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/urinary-tract-infection/antibiotics-uti-in-pregnancy t C d 6/22
Urinary Tract Infections in Kids: Symptoms, Causes, and

Treatment
Written by Meredith Merkley, DO, FAAP
Why Urinary Tract Infections Are More Common During

Pregnancy—And How to Treat Them
Written by Kerry R. McGee, MD, FAAP
Can Methenamine and Vitamin C Help Prevent Urinary Tract

Infections (UTIs)?
Written by Karla Robinson, MD
6 Sulfamethoxazole / Trimethoprim (Bactrim) Interactions

You Should Know About
Written by Sonja Jacobsen, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP
The Early Signs of Sepsis: How to Spot This Life-threatening
Condition
Written by Cherilyn Cecchini, MD
Foley Catheters: When You Might Need One, and How to

Care for It at Home
Written by Mala Mandyam Sanchez, MD
6 Remedies for Coping With Chronic UTIs | My Medicine

Cabinet
Written by Sarah E. Ladd
Urinalysis: What It Tests For and Why You Might Need One
Written by Jennifer L. Claves, MD
Macrobid vs. Macrodantin: What’s the Difference Between

These UTI Treatments?
Written by Jennifer Gershman, PharmD, CPh, PACS
When Do You Really Need Antibiotics?
Written by Meg Burke, MD
10 Causes of Frequent Urination

Written by Karla Robinson, MD
Your Options for Over-the-Counter UTI Treatment
access_time 2:00
What Causes Blood in the Urine?

Why Do I Feel Like Peeing After I’ve Already Peed?

Written by Christina Palmer, MD
What Would Cause My Pee to Be Orange?
access_time 1:38
Why Is My Pee Brown?
How Many Times a Day Should You Pee?

Written by Anne Jacobson, MD, MPH
Why Does a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Cause Confusion in

Older Adults?
Written by Elizabeth Miller, MD

Prices & Discounts
Tools & Info
Health
Support
Company
Download the GoodRx App now!
Yeast Infection vs. UTI:Don’t

How miss out on savings!
to Tell the Difference
Will Cranberry Juice Help With My UTI?
Written by Mandy
Enter your Armitage, MD
email address Subscribe
By providing your email address you agree to receive emails containing coupons refill reminders and promotional messages from GoodRx
By providing your email address, you agree to receive emails containing coupons, refill reminders and promotional messages from GoodRx.
You can unsubscribe at any time.
Copyright ©2011-2022 GoodRx, Inc.
Cookie Preferences Privacy Policy Privacy Center Disclaimer Terms of Use
This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical
advice, diagnosis or treatment. GoodRx is not offering advice, recommending or endorsing any specific
prescription drug, pharmacy or other information on the site. GoodRx provides no warranty for any information.
Please seek medical advice before starting, changing or terminating any medical treatment.
GoodRx works to make its website accessible to all, including those with disabilities. If you are having difficulty
access_time 1:20
accessing this website, please call or email us at (855) 268-2822 or ada@goodrx.com so that we can provide you
with the services you require through alternative means.
What’s the Difference Between Interstitial Cystitis and a

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
Written
WhatbyReally
Mandy Armitage,
Works MD to Prevent UTIs? Answers to Frequently
Asked Questions
access_time 1:14
Can You Get Rid of a UTI Without Antibiotics?

Written by Sarah Gupta, MD
Can You Get a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) from Having Sex?
Written by Kerry R. McGee, MD, FAAP
View more

Antibiotics For UTIs in Pregnancy - What You Need To Know - GoodRx

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Antibiotics For UTIs in Pregnancy - What You Need To Know - GoodRx

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

24/9/22, 2:39 Antibiotics for UTIs in Pregnancy: What You Need to Know - GoodRx

Home chevron_right Health Conditions chevron_right Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

FatCamera/iStock via Getty Image

What UTI medications are safe during pregnancy?

What UTI medications are not safe during pregnancy?

Like nitrofurantoin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (Bactrim) has conflicting information on

What are other things I can do to treat a UTI while I’m

Urinate as soon as you feel the need to

The bottom line

Was this page helpful?

Learn more about Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary Tract Infections in Kids: Symptoms, Causes, and

Why Urinary Tract Infections Are More Common During

Written by Kerry R. McGee, MD, FAAP

Can Methenamine and Vitamin C Help Prevent Urinary Tract

Written by Karla Robinson, MD

6 Sulfamethoxazole / Trimethoprim (Bactrim) Interactions

Written by Cherilyn Cecchini, MD

Foley Catheters: When You Might Need One, and How to

6 Remedies for Coping With Chronic UTIs | My Medicine

Written by Jennifer L. Claves, MD

Macrobid vs. Macrodantin: What’s the Difference Between

When Do You Really Need Antibiotics?

Written by Meg Burke, MD

10 Causes of Frequent Urination

Your Options for Over-the-Counter UTI Treatment

What Causes Blood in the Urine?

Why Do I Feel Like Peeing After I’ve Already Peed?

What Would Cause My Pee to Be Orange?

Why Is My Pee Brown?

Written by Cherilyn Cecchini, MD

How Many Times a Day Should You Pee?

Why Does a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Cause Confusion in

Written by Elizabeth Miller, MD

Prices & Discounts

Tools & Info

Download the GoodRx App now!

Yeast Infection vs. UTI:Don’t

Copyright ©2011-2022 GoodRx, Inc.

Cookie Preferences Privacy Policy Privacy Center Disclaimer Terms of Use

What’s the Difference Between Interstitial Cystitis and a

Can You Get Rid of a UTI Without Antibiotics?

You might also like