For many new mothers, one of the most confusing questions after childbirth is whether it is safe, or even necessary, to take antibiotics. The doubt becomes even bigger for women who are breastfeeding and worried about how medications might affect their newborn.
To understand when antibiotics are needed and how they help, Local18 spoke to Dr. Manvita, a gynaecologist from Wanaparthy in Telangana, who explains the medical reasoning behind their use after delivery.
Why Antibiotics Are Sometimes Needed After Childbirth
Childbirth, whether vaginal or via C-section, exposes women to a risk of infection. These infections can range from mild to severe and, in some cases, may even become life-threatening for both mother and baby if left untreated.
While not every mother will develop an infection, certain situations raise the risk, such as prolonged labour, emergency procedures, tears, surgical interventions, or poor sanitation, in some settings. This is why doctors sometimes recommend antibiotics soon after delivery, especially when complications occur or the risk of postpartum infection is high.
What Doctors Typically Do After Delivery
According to Dr. Manvita, prophylactic antibiotics -- medicines given to prevent infection -- are often administered after a normal vaginal delivery in many healthcare settings. Research and clinical practice consistently show that these medications can significantly reduce the chances of postpartum infections when compared to mothers who receive no antibiotics.
Doctors also note that preventing maternal infection has a direct impact on newborn health. When the mother is healthy and free from infections, the baby is less likely to be exposed to harmful bacteria, leading to better overall health outcomes in the first weeks of life.
Are Antibiotics Safe For Breastfeeding Mothers?
Dr. Manvita says when antibiotics are prescribed by a qualified doctor, they are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. Most commonly used postpartum antibiotics are chosen because they pose minimal risk to the baby while still protecting the mother from infection.
However, she stresses that the decision to use antibiotics must always be medical, based on factors such as:
While antibiotics can be life-saving when used correctly, unnecessary use can cause more harm than good. Taking them on your own, without medical advice, can lead to antibiotic resistance, side effects, or complications for both mother and child.
Dr. Manvita's key advice to new mothers is simple: only take antibiotics if your doctor recommends them. Their use can be protective and essential in certain situations, but they should never be taken casually or without proper medical supervision.