Related Experiment Video

Updated: Mar 27, 2026

A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development
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A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development

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Penicillin Allergy in Pregnancy: A Practical Review for the Obstetrician

Jennifer J M Cate1, Allison Chu2, Celeste Prado3,4

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.

Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey
|March 26, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Many pregnant individuals are misdiagnosed with penicillin allergy. Penicillin allergy testing in pregnancy is safe and effective for delabeling, reducing adverse outcomes and unnecessary antibiotic use.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Allergy and Immunology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Penicillin allergy is frequently reported during pregnancy, but true allergies are rare.
  • Misdiagnosis of penicillin allergy can lead to the use of alternative antibiotics with potential adverse outcomes for mother and neonate.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of penicillin allergy.
  • To assess the safety and impact of penicillin allergy testing in pregnant individuals.
  • To explore quality improvement interventions for penicillin allergy assessment.

Main Methods:

  • A review of original research, review articles, and professional society guidelines.
  • Focus on penicillin allergy evaluation specifically in the context of pregnancy.

Main Results:

  • Penicillin allergy in pregnancy is linked to increased maternal and neonatal adverse outcomes.
  • Penicillin allergy testing is safe and effective, with most individuals being successfully delabeled.
  • Testing reduces the use of second-line antibiotics, though further research is needed on outcome reduction.

Conclusions:

  • Penicillin allergy in pregnancy poses risks; however, safe delabeling is achievable for most.
  • Increased penicillin allergy assessment in pregnant individuals is a crucial public health goal.
Abstract

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