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Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while using fusidic acid - Brand name: Fucidin

Fusidic acid and pregnancy

It's safe to use fusidic acid cream, ointment or eye drops while you're pregnant.

Very little of the medicine gets to your baby, and the small amount that does will not harm them.

Fusidic acid and breastfeeding

It's OK to use fusidic acid cream, ointment or eye drops while you're breastfeeding. It's very unlikely that any fusidic acid will get into your breast milk.

Some fusidic acid creams also contain a steroid. It's still OK to use these creams while breastfeeding, but do not apply them directly to your breast.

When using the cream or ointment, be careful that your baby does not come into contact with the areas of your body you have put it on. Wash your hands after you have used it and before picking up your baby.

If you're using fusidic acid for impetigo and you need to put the cream or ointment on your breasts or nipples, wash it off before feeding your baby. It's usually better to use cream rather than ointment when breastfeeding, as it's easier to wash off. If you're using fusidic acid for another condition, do not apply it to your breast without first speaking to your doctor or a pharmacist.

It's very rare for breastfed babies to have side effects from medicines you're using. But it's important to keep monitoring your baby if you're using any medicine while breastfeeding.

Contact your healthcare professional or call 111 as soon as possible if you notice that your baby is not feeding as well as usual, has any unusual symptoms, or if you're worried about them.

Fusidic acid and fertility

There's no evidence to suggest that using fusidic acid reduces fertility in either men or women.

Page last reviewed: 30 January 2026
Next review due: 30 January 2029