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What are the risks of MRSA during pregnancy?

MRSA germs (or bacteria) don't usually harm healthy people, including pregnant women, babies and children.

Little research has been done on the effects of MRSA during pregnancy. However, there is no evidence that carrying MRSA germs during pregnancy can cause miscarriage or harm the unborn baby.

What does 'carrying MRSA' mean?

Some people carry MRSA germs on their skin or in their nose without developing an MRSA infection. They may not know that they're carrying MRSA because they have no symptoms and it doesn't harm them. This is known as being colonised with MRSA.

MRSA infection and screening

MRSA infection happens when the bacteria get into the body through a break in the skin. It's most common in people in hospital. In pregnant women problems can be caused by caesarean sections if the wound becomes infected. However, MRSA in pregnant women is not common.


MRSA screening is also carried out for emergency admissions to hospital.

Screening for MRSA during pregnancy


Pregnant women aren't routinely offered screening for MRSA as part of their antenatal care. However, screening may be offered in some circumstances. For example, if the woman: 

  • is booked in for an elective caesarean section (not all hospitals do this; so always let your healthcare team know if you've had MRSA in the past)
  • has previously been infected with MRSA
  • has any wounds
  • has a urinary catheter

Whether screening is offered may vary, depending on the hospital's policy. Babies are not routinely screened for MRSA. However, if your baby is admitted to a neonatal unit, they will be screened for MRSA, and the whole family may be treated if the baby has MRSA.

Treating MRSA colonisation


Read frequently asked questions about screening for MRSA, including treatment for people who are carrying MRSA.


Treating MRSA infection




Getting advice


Read the answers to more questions about pregnancy.

Further information:

Page last reviewed: 05/10/2015

Next review due: 31/08/2018