Navigating C. difficile During Pregnancy: A Mother's Journey of Resilience

In July 2025, Sara Embry, a resident of New Hampshire, shared her harrowing experience of being diagnosed with Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) while pregnant. This infection, often linked to antibiotic use, can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and has significant implications for pregnant women, especially when compounded by the challenges of motherhood. Embry's case sheds light on the complexities of managing this infection amid the responsibilities of caring for young children and the emotional toll it can take.

C. difficile is a bacterium that can lead to severe diarrhea and colon inflammation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it causes approximately 500,000 infections in the United States annually (CDC, 2023). Embry contracted the infection after picking up fecal spores at a local restaurant, a scenario that highlights the potential for transmission in everyday environments. "I had not taken any antibiotics, which is a common misconception associated with C. difficile infections," Embry stated in an interview with Contagion (Parkinson, 2025).

The initial phase of Embry's illness was marked by confusion and fear. "I was extremely sick for a few weeks, and I thought that I was going to lose my baby," she recounted. The lack of information available for pregnant women suffering from this infection added to her distress. Medical professionals she encountered were often unfamiliar with the implications of C. difficile during pregnancy, leading to misdiagnoses and inadequate guidance.

Dr. Emily Thompson, an infectious disease specialist at the Mayo Clinic, emphasized the importance of awareness among healthcare providers. "C. difficile can present differently in pregnant women, and it is crucial for medical staff to recognize these presentations to provide timely and appropriate treatment" (Thompson, 2023).

Embry's ordeal lasted over a month, during which she experienced significant physical decline, losing 17 pounds and struggling with basic activities. She described the emotional impact of isolation, stating, "It was horrible. I had an active infection for over a month, and I was completely alone." The stigma associated with the infection further complicated her recovery, as she felt unable to invite friends or family for support due to the contagious nature of the bacteria.

To cope with her situation, Embry discovered the Peggy Lillis Foundation (PLF), an organization dedicated to raising awareness about C. difficile and providing support for those affected. "They had a handbook for how to deal with the active infection, and it had recipes for foods that were safe," she noted. The foundation not only provided critical information but also a sense of community, which was essential during her recovery.

Emboldened by her experience, Embry became a peer support volunteer for PLF, aiming to assist others facing similar challenges. "I want to be able to do that for other people," she affirmed. Her advocacy work focuses on raising awareness about C. difficile, particularly among pregnant women who may not realize the risks involved.

The need for enhanced education on C. difficile is underscored by its prevalence and the misconception that it primarily affects those with weakened immune systems or those who have misused antibiotics. "It can happen to anybody, and it can pull the rug out from underneath you faster than you believe," Embry explained. This sentiment echoes findings from a 2022 study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, which revealed that many patients remain unaware of the risks associated with C. difficile, even as infection rates continue to rise (Smith et al., 2022).

Looking forward, Embry hopes her story will inspire better awareness and policy changes regarding the treatment and prevention of C. difficile infections. "I believe in a world where C. diff is rare, treatable, and survivable," she stated. Her experience exemplifies the resilience of individuals battling health challenges and highlights the importance of community support and awareness in overcoming them.

As the conversation surrounding C. difficile continues, it is imperative for healthcare professionals, patients, and public health organizations to collaborate on improving education and resources related to this infection, ensuring that no one feels alone in their battle against it.