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Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases commonly referred to as STDs or STIs are caused by sexual contact between infected persons. While it is dangerous for anyone the risks may be high during pregnancy. Read on to know how STDs spread and what you can do to keep your unborn baby safe.

What are Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections transmitted from an infected person to an uninfected person through sexual contact. STDs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Examples include gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus infection, HIV/AIDS, chlamydia, and syphilis.

Can STD be passed from a mother to baby during Pregnancy?

Yes, certain STDs can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy or at birth. Some examples are gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.

This is the reason why it is crucial that all pregnant women get tested and do every serology recommended, since STD can have severe consequences for the unborn child, or lead to stillbirth in the worst-case scenario.

If any infection is detected, the doctor will put you on a safe and appropriate STI treatment plan.

Symptoms of STDs

The common symptoms of STDs in female patients are:

● Bumps, rashes or soreness around the vagina or anus

● Rashes

● Swelling in the vagina

● Bloody discharge (not related to menstruation)

● Yellowish vaginal discharge

● Extreme pain during intercourse

● Pain, redness and itching in the vagina and anus

● Fever and chills

● Body ache

How can STDs affect my pregnancy and their treatment options

Some of the most common STDs that can affect pregnancy include:

● Chlamydia

While Chlamydia is not transmitted to the baby in your womb, it can cause an eye infection in the baby immediately after birth. To treat it, the mother is given antibiotics and the baby is given eye ointment as soon as he is born.

● Genital herpes

While herpes isn’t transmitted to the baby, if the baby comes in contact with the affected genitalia of the mother during delivery, he may get the infection. Hence, a C-Section is usually performed in such cases.

● Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea doesn't cause any harm to the foetus. However, if it gets transmitted to the baby, it may develop an eye infection which can lead to blindness. As a form of treatment, the mother is given antibiotics and the baby is administered an eye ointment postpartum.

● HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is the most widely known STD that affects many people worldwide. Though it is an incurable disease, with current medical advances an unborn child is safe in the womb even if the mother is HIV positive.

● Syphilis

Syphilis is a serious STI that gets transmitted to the foetus and can cause premature birth and severe complications in the newborn. To prevent this, regular medicines should be taken by the mother throughout her pregnancy to control symptoms and to keep the baby as safe as possible.

How can I protect myself from STDs during pregnancy?

The safest option is to abstain from any sexual activity during your gestation period. However, that may not be the most practical option. Hence, ensure to use proper protection every time you engage in any sexual activity.

Conclusion

STDs during pregnancy can pose various dangers to your unborn child. When detected, the doctor will recommend a treatment plan based on type and intensity of the STD.

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Source: Clevelandclinic, Cdc.gov

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on January 12, 2023