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Obstetrics & the Use of Cleocin

During pregnancy, the use of medications is a frequent concern of most women. It is important to discuss risks and side effects of any medications being used with an obstetrician to avoid potential harmful side effects to the unborn baby.

  1. Identification

    • According to, WebMd.com, Cleocin is the brand name for an antibiotic medication called clindamycin hcl, and is used to treat numerous bacterial infections. Possible common side effects of its use include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

    Cleocin During Pregnancy

    • According to the Drug Safety Society, no specific links have been established between the use of Cleocin and birth defects. Reproduction studies conducted in mice and rats showed no signs of teratogenicity -- developmental malformations.

    Cleocin and Breast Milk

    • According to Drugs.com, Cleocin is dispensed into breast milk, and adverse gastrointestinal symptoms have been recorded in one infant exposed in this way to Cleocin as well as other drugs. Although these symptoms were not exclusively linked to the Cleocin, the manufacturer recommends discontinuing the drug while nursing unless otherwise directed by a doctor.

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