What are the effects of metronidazole tablets on the fetus when taken by pregnant women?

Taking metronidazole during pregnancy may pose certain risks to the fetus.

Metronidazole is an anti-inflammatory medication. During pregnancy, a woman’s immune resistance is relatively weakened; thus, taking this drug may cause certain irritation to the maternal body and adversely affect normal fetal growth and development—even potentially leading to fetal malformations. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid using metronidazole whenever possible and must not self-administer any other medications without medical supervision. If treatment is necessary, it should be undertaken only under the guidance of a qualified physician, who can select an appropriate medication based on the individual’s specific clinical condition.

Particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy—the critical period for fetal neural development—drug use may disrupt normal neurodevelopment. Hence, medication should be avoided during this time to safeguard healthy fetal growth and development.

Additionally, pregnant women should maintain a positive mental state, adhere to regular daily routines and healthy lifestyle habits, and attend scheduled prenatal check-ups at the hospital to monitor both fetal development and their own health status promptly.