Which antibiotic is primarily used to treat UTIs in pregnancy?

Which antibiotic is primarily used to treat UTIs in pregnancy?

• A. Nitrofurantoin
• B. Amoxicillin
• C. Ciprofloxacin
• D. Doxycycline

Answer: (A)

Treating UTIs in pregnancy requires an antibiotic that is safe for the fetus and effectively reaches the urinary tract. Nitrofurantoin does this well: it concentrates in urine, works against common urinary pathogens like E. coli, and has a long history of safe use in pregnancy for uncomplicated cystitis. That combination makes it the primary choice for treating a UTI during pregnancy. Amoxicillin can be used if the organism is susceptible, but many UTIs are caused by resistant strains, reducing its reliability. Ciprofloxacin is avoided in pregnancy due to potential harm to fetal cartilage and joints. Doxycycline is avoided because it can affect fetal teeth and bone development.

Treating UTIs in pregnancy requires an antibiotic that is safe for the fetus and effectively reaches the urinary tract. Nitrofurantoin does this well: it concentrates in urine, works against common urinary pathogens like E. coli, and has a long history of safe use in pregnancy for uncomplicated cystitis. That combination makes it the primary choice for treating a UTI during pregnancy. Amoxicillin can be used if the organism is susceptible, but many UTIs are caused by resistant strains, reducing its reliability. Ciprofloxacin is avoided in pregnancy due to potential harm to fetal cartilage and joints. Doxycycline is avoided because it can affect fetal teeth and bone development.