What should you know about strep throat while pregnant?

Pregnancy does not make every sore throat strep throat. Strep throat is a bacterial infection that may cause sore throat, fever, painful swallowing, red or coated tonsils, and swollen neck glands; viral infections can cause similar symptoms. A clinician may examine your throat and recommend testing. Tell the clinician how far along your pregnancy is, your allergies, regular medicines, and any pregnancy-related health concerns. This information helps them choose suitable treatment and decide whether dehydration or fever needs closer attention.

Contact your GP, maternity team, or another qualified clinician for advice rather than self-treating with leftover antibiotics. If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it exactly as directed and check before adding an over-the-counter medicine, herbal product, or lozenge. Drink regularly, rest, choose easy-to-swallow foods, and avoid smoke. Wash hands and do not share drinks or utensils. Keep your pregnancy care team informed if you cannot keep fluids down, your fever persists, or your throat pain makes eating difficult.

Seek urgent medical help if you have trouble breathing, cannot swallow saliva or fluids, are drooling, develop fast-growing throat or neck swelling, or become confused or extremely weak. Contact your maternity team or clinician promptly for persistent fever, signs of dehydration, a spreading rash, or worsening symptoms. Pregnancy-related concerns such as reduced fetal movement should be handled through your maternity service. Do not wait for a routine appointment when breathing or swallowing is affected.

Ask whether a throat test is needed, which medicines are suitable at your stage of pregnancy, how to manage fever, and which symptoms require maternity or emergency review. Share every medicine and supplement you use, including occasional products.