Can Impetigo harm an unborn baby?

Answer 1

Impetigo is a 'contagious' disease. That means it is spread by direct physical contact. If you don't touch anyone who has it you shouldn't get the infection. It is quite rare for an adult to get impetigo. This is partly because it is usually caused by the most common bacteria which are present on the skin, and adults usually have more resistance.

Being pregnant does not create an extra risk. The bacteria which cause the disease are not likely to cause any harm to an unborn child if there is only an infection on the skin.

The disease is often treatable with antibiotic cream, but sometimes the patient also needs to take an antibiotic by mouth. If you did catch the infection, then as long as the doctor knows that you are pregnant, you could, if required, be prescribed antibiotic that is safe to use in pregnancy.