Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are harmful to all impacted by them, including pregnant women and their developing fetuses. Even when women aren’t pregnant, STIs should be identified and treated as quickly as possible to protect their reproductive health and prevent any lasting damage.
If you’re currently pregnant and wondering whether you should receive STI testing, the answer is yes. Schedule a no-cost appointment today to verify your pregnancy with pregnancy testing and an ultrasound, and receive no-cost STI testing.
Why do pregnant women need STI testing? Keep reading for the facts.
Facts Pregnant Women Should Know About STIs
STIs Can Complicate Your Pregnancy
STIs can cause complications for the woman during pregnancy, including premature rupture of membranes (when your water breaks early before 37 weeks), preterm labor, and preterm birth. This can also lead to low birth weight for the baby.
Certain STIs can also be passed to the developing fetus during pregnancy and labor, and lead to some significant health issues. If you plan to carry to term, your care team will test for many STIs and create a treatment plan. For some viral STIs, like genital herpes, that cannot be fully resolved, they will monitor your condition closely to ensure the healthiest possible outcome.
STIs Can Increase the Chance of Infection After Abortion
For women considering abortion, having an existing STI during an abortion, especially gonorrhea or chlamydia, can increase the chances of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This is a serious infection of the reproductive organs that can lead to permanent damage, including chronic pain.
Pregnancy Doesn’t Protect You from STIs
Pregnancy does not offer any protection from STIs or from spreading them. If you discover that you do have an STI during pregnancy, you will want to ensure your partner receives testing and treatment too. You can be reinfected with the same STI again, even from the same person.
Confidential STI Testing
STI testing and treatment during pregnancy are essential. Schedule a no-cost appointment today at Heart of the Hills in Fredericksburg, TX. We’re here to help you during your unexpected pregnancy and beyond.
