The thought of having a sexually transmitted disease (STD) is hard to imagine, much less talk about. You don’t want anyone to know, but you need a safe place to get information and referrals for testing.
It is possible to pass an STD on to your child. Getting immediate treatment is vital not only for your health but also for your baby’s long-term health.
Although Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center does not provide on-site free STD testing, we can connect you with trusted local clinics that do.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and are concerned about the effects of an STD on your baby, our team is here to listen and answer your questions. Schedule a free and private appointment today.
How Does an STD Affect My Pregnancy?
The terms “sexually transmitted disease” (STD) and “sexually transmitted infection” (STI) are often used interchangeably. Both refer to any infection passed from person to person through sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral) or the exchange of bodily fluids.
They are contagious, but most are curable. STIs can affect pregnancy and delivery, even fetal development. Some STIs, like syphilis, chlamydia, and genital herpes, can be spread while giving birth to your baby.
The following are a few effects an STI like gonorrhea can have on your pregnancy:
- A miscarriage.
- Your “water breaks” before your body is ready to go into labor. If it happens before 37 weeks of pregnancy, you risk giving birth preterm.
- Preterm birth poses health risks to your baby.
- One of the big risks of a preterm birth is that your baby will be born weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces, which can lead to health complications.
How Does an STI Affect Me?
STI complications for females include the following:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can damage your uterus and cause infertility.
- Ectopic pregnancy.
- Infertility.
- Chronic pelvic pain.
How To Avoid Complications
Whether you’re concerned for yourself or your baby, it’s essential to get regular STI testing. Many STIs don’t have immediate symptoms, so you may have one without knowing it. The only way to avoid getting an STI is by not having sex.
If you are sexually active, it’s vital to practice safe sex, decrease high-risk behaviors like alcohol or drug use, and ensure all of your partners are tested and treated for STIs.
Get Help From Elevate
We understand how awkward and embarrassing it is to discuss sexually transmitted diseases or infections. For more information about STIs, read “3 Reasons to Take Advantage of Free STD Testing.”
Our compassionate team can answer your questions and connect you with trusted clinics in our area that offer free STD testing. Don’t wait. Get the help you need today.
Schedule a free, private consultation with Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center. You can contact us online, by phone, or by text at (320) 252-4150. We’re here for you.