6 weeks pregnant, I have tonsillitus, should I take antibiotics?

[Jane7]

Hello Mumsnet, I'm new here but I was hoping members might be able to help.
I'm lying low with tonsillitus, and am so worried about it affecting the tiny little thing growing inside me. I'm trying not to take paracetemol too often, and so far have resisted taking antibiotics, since I've only had the bug for 2 days. But I'm concerned that I am putting my pregnancy at risk... And will it put it more at risk if I take antiobiotics...
Does anyone know if tonsillitus goes away on its own if you stay in bed, drink lots and do lots of salt water gargling?

Thank you.

[PortAndLemon]

You will not put it more at risk if you take antibiotics, provided it's one that's been checked (which most of them have, especially those you'd be given for tonsilitis -- some antibiotics that would normally be first choice for urinary infections or skin complaints aren't advised in pregnancy, but most are fine).

[ThePFJ]

I used to get tonsilitus constantly.

Resting, gargling with salt water or even better.. the ol miracle cure Diflam. It is wonderful for tonsilitus and you should be numb enough to swallow without it hurting after using it.

I never really was prescribed anti-b's for it.

You could take paracetomal for the pain too if you need to. See if you can take ibuprofen though(check the packet or ring midwife to ask) as this would be even better as its an anti inflamatory.

It will pass if you look after yourself.
If it doesn't in a week then see a Doctor.

Get well soon! xxx -hugs-

[Jane7]

thanks for all your messages. mumsnet is so reassuring.
Can i ask you something, thePFG, did you get tonsillitis when you were pregnant?
it's just so weird that I've got it as I haven't had it since I was a teenager (i'm now 27) and I wondered if it was related to being pregnant.
The good news is the white spots on tonsils have gone down a bit today and I think I'm going to be ok without taking antibiotics.

[ThePFJ]

No, I didn't because I got it so often I had them out a little while ago.
I do know when pregnant you are more likely to get anything thats going around, like colds etc. and tonsilitis comes under that heading.
I am glad to hear you are getting better. Just remember Diflam, ibuprofen = miracle cure. For me anyways.
One thing about tonsilitus though I used to feel everytime was homesick/missed my mum. So if you feel teary try to get lots of cuddles.

Hope you continue to improve,
-hugs-