QuestionWhen I was 10 weeks pregnant, I had a severely upset stomach that included throwing up and diarrhea for three days. I also had a slight fever. I went to the hospital and was put on a drip and given a 10 day course of amoxicillin, because my blood test indicated that it was a bacteria not a virus. Unfortunately, nobody ever really explained the situation to me and I have been worried sick ever since because I am afraid that my baby may have been hurt by this. I also really wonder what it was that I had. Listeriosis? Salmonella? E.Coli? How dangerous is this kind of upset stomach for a fetus? I can barely enjoy my pregnancy because I am so afraid of my baby being damaged.
AnswerDear Anja,
First, I want to apologize for the delay in answering (PC troubles)...
Now, the very simple answer to this is that you definitely should have a conversation with your doctor!! Your doctor will know from your medical records exactly what kind of bacteria you were infected with and how that particular bacteria would or could have affected this pregnancy. I'm surprised and disappointed that this information was not shared with you before.
As far as the vomiting and diarrhea having an effect on the baby - the reason they put you in the hospital on an IV was to prevent dehydration. It is the dehydration that would have an adverse effect on the baby.
Please remember that whatever the infection was, the antibiotic must have killed it and the antibiotic would have treated you and the baby if the baby was involved as well. But as I said, you definitely should discuss this with your doctor. Make a list of questions to take with you to the next appointment, so you don't forget to ask EVERYthing that you want to know. That is the only way that your mind will be put at ease.
I hope that this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well and hope you have a healthy rest of your pregnancy!
Brenda
