Two studies published in the September 18^th issue of The Lancet show a link between antibiotic use to stop preterm labor and an increased cerebral palsy risk. Antibiotics are sometimes given to pregnant women to prevent preterm delivery, even if they show no sign of infection or membrane rupture.

The idea behind antibiotic use in these situations is to treat low levels of infection that may be undetectable but causing early labor. However, evidence has not proved antibiotic treatment effective in delaying preterm delivery, and worse, it now seems such treatment may actually cause problems.

Double the Risk

Both studies looked at children born to women who were given one of two antibiotics (erythromycin or co-amoxiclav) or a placebo toward the end of their pregnancies. More than 4 percent of the children whose mothers were given antibiotics had cerebral palsy, compared with about 1.5 percent of children in the placebo group.

Preterm labor is itself associated with a heightened risk of cerebral palsy, and so are maternal and fetal infections. In cases where infection is clear, the benefits of antibiotic use may outweigh the risks. Pregnant women should always discuss any concerns with their physician.

Tags: "Cerebral Palsy Risk" "Antibiotic"