Antibiotics were first prescribed in the last 1930’s and revolutionized the treatment of infections. Today, antibiotics are commonly used before, during and after birth to treat or prevent infection in mothers and babies. Although antibiotics can be highly effective, they can also cause adverse effects in mother and baby. When given to women around the time of birth, or to infants soon after birth, antibiotics may change the baby’s gut flora, and may interfere with the baby’s developing immune system. Globally, antibiotic resistance is rising, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality.
This presentation will review the current use of antibiotics for the treatment or prevention of infections in mothers and infants in hospital birth settings. We will discuss the benefits, risks, and alternatives to antibiotic use, and how these practices impact breastfeeding mothers and infants.
Learning Objectives:
Objective 1: List two maternal conditions and two infant conditions that could occur during the hospital stay related to birth that would typically require treatment with antibiotics in the US.
Objective 2: To describe two possible adverse effects of antibiotic treatment on the mother and the infant.
Objective 3: Discuss the global epidemic of antibiotic resistance and actions being taken to address this threat.
Objective 4: Discuss the impact of antibiotic treatment on the breastfeeding dyad.
To Continue, Please Select Your Country of Residence
Whoops! Please select your Country before clicking "Submit"
The GOLD Learning Lecture Library is a unique & convenient resource for Healthcare Professionals, Researchers, Students and other Educators looking to stay up to date on the latest evidence-based skills and practices. Country Category pricing has been determined by World Bank Economic Indicators. Proof of residency may be requested. Learn more about our Category Pricing Here.
