STDs During Pregnancy: Risks, Testing, and Treatment

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a common health concern among sexually active individuals. However, STDs can also pose significant risks for pregnant women and their babies. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common STDs that can affect pregnant women and their babies, the risks associated with these STDs, and how they can be prevented and treated.

 

STDs that impact pregnancies:

 

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that is spread through sexual contact. It is the most commonly reported STD in the United States, and pregnant women are at increased risk of contracting the infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), untreated chlamydia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby, including premature birth and low birth weight.

Symptoms of chlamydia in pregnant women may include vaginal discharge, painful urination, and vaginal bleeding. However, many women may not experience any symptoms, which is why routine screening during prenatal care is essential.

The CDC recommends that pregnant women under 25 or those that have an increased risk for infection be screened for chlamydia during their first prenatal visit. Women who test positive should be treated with antibiotics to prevent transmission to the baby during delivery.

 

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial infection that is spread through sexual contact. Like chlamydia, gonorrhea can also cause serious complications for pregnant women and their babies if left untreated. According to the CDC, untreated gonorrhea can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, and life-threatening infections in the baby.

Symptoms of gonorrhea in pregnant women may include vaginal discharge, painful urination, and vaginal bleeding. As with chlamydia, many women may not experience any symptoms, which is why routine screening during prenatal care is essential.

The CDC recommends that all pregnant women be screened for gonorrhea during their first prenatal visit. Women who test positive should be treated with antibiotics to prevent transmission to the baby during delivery.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to baby during pregnancy. According to the CDC, untreated syphilis during pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby, including stillbirth and infant death.

Symptoms of syphilis in pregnant women may include a rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. However, many women may not experience any symptoms, which is why routine screening during prenatal care is essential.

The CDC recommends that all pregnant women be screened for syphilis during their first prenatal visit. Women who test positive should be treated with antibiotics to prevent transmission to the baby during pregnancy.

 

HIV/AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.

According to the CDC, without treatment, about one in four babies born to women with HIV will be infected with the virus. However, with appropriate treatment during pregnancy, delivery, and after the baby is born, the risk of transmission can be greatly reduced.

The CDC recommends that all pregnant women be tested for HIV during their first prenatal visit. Women who test positive should receive antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy, delivery, and after the baby is born to reduce the risk of transmission.

 

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing STDs during pregnancy is essential for the health of both the mother and the baby. The following strategies can help prevent STDs during pregnancy:

  • Abstinence or mutually monogamous relationships
  • Correct and consistent use of condoms
  • Routine STD testing and treatment

If a pregnant woman is diagnosed with an STD, treatment is available to reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. Treatment options may include antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the type of STD. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by a healthcare provider to ensure that the infection is completely eliminated.

It is also important for sexual partners to be tested and treated for STDs to prevent reinfection. Pregnant women with STDs should also inform their healthcare provider so that they can be closely monitored throughout pregnancy.

 

If I want to get tested for STDs, how do I do that?

Schedule an appointment for testing at one of our locations today!

 

Does Medi-Cal cover testing and treatment for STDs during pregnancy?

Absolutely! Medi-Cal covers STD testing and treatment offered for pregnant women through our confidential and affordable services at RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics.

Not familiar with Medi-Cal? It is low-cost or no-cost health insurance for those living in California that meet certain eligibility requirements. If you have a Medi-Cal plan, you can get tested and treated for STDs during pregnancy at no cost or low cost to you.

If you are unsure if you qualify for Medi-Cal coverage, don’t worry! There are a few simple ways to find out if you can enroll:

  • Contact MCAP at (800) 433-2611.
  • Call Covered California at (800) 300-1506.
  • Apply online at CoveredCA.com via email with a confirmation or notification for the best available time.

 

Wrapping Up

STDs can pose significant risks for pregnant women and their babies, but they can be prevented and treated with early detection and appropriate treatment. Routine screening for STDs during prenatal care is essential for ensuring the health of both the mother and the baby.

RealOptions is here to provide you with the care and support you need. Contact us or schedule an appointment to get started!

 

Medical information and statistics provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):