When it comes to pregnancy, ensuring the health of both mother and baby is crucial, and that includes being aware of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Here’s a breakdown of common STDs that can affect pregnant individuals, the associated risks, and treatment options.
Bacterial Infections – Curable STDs
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Gonorrhea
Risks:
Mother: Can lead to ectopic pregnancies and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), potentially resulting in infertility.
Baby: May cause premature birth, stillbirth, or eye infections.
Transmission: Can be passed during delivery through the birth canal.
Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by your healthcare provider are effective for the mother, and antibiotic drops are often administered to the baby’s eyes to prevent infection. -
Chlamydia
Risks:
Mother: Similar to gonorrhea, it can cause ectopic pregnancies and PID.
Baby: Risks include pneumonia, eye infections, and even blindness.
Transmission: Transferred during childbirth.
Treatment: Also treated with antibiotics approved by a healthcare provider for both mother and baby. -
Trichomoniasis
Risks:
Mother: Can damage the fallopian tubes.
Baby: Associated with premature birth and low birth weight.
Transmission: Occurs during delivery.
Treatment: Antibiotics are effective for both mother and baby. -
Bacterial Vaginosis
Risks:
Baby: Linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Transmission: Can occur during birth.
Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider are effective. -
Syphilis
Risks:
Mother: Can lead to miscarriage.
Baby: Risks include stillbirth and congenital syphilis, which can cause severe physical and mental health issues.
Transmission: Can cross the placenta or be transmitted during delivery.
Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider can prevent fetal damage.
Viral Infections – Non-Curable STDs
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Risks:
Mother: Can lead to genital cancer.
Baby: Rarely, warts can develop in the baby’s throat, requiring surgery.
Transmission: Can be transferred during birth, though it’s uncommon.
Treatment: Wart treatment can occur during pregnancy with healthcare provider approval. -
Hepatitis B
Risks:
Mother: Significant liver damage may occur.
Baby: Without immediate treatment post-birth, up to 90% of newborns will become lifelong carriers.
Transmission: Passed during birth.
Treatment: There is no cure, but vaccination can prevent transmission. -
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
Risks:
Mother: Severe outbreaks in early pregnancy can lead to miscarriage.
Baby: Highest risk if contracted during pregnancy, potentially leading to neonatal herpes.
Transmission: Can occur during delivery or rarely through the placenta.
Treatment: While there is no cure, antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks. -
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Risks:
Mother & Baby: HIV can progress to AIDS, which is life-threatening.
Transmission: Can cross the placenta, be transmitted during delivery, or through breastfeeding.
Treatment: Antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.
Recognizing and treating STDs during pregnancy is vital for the health of both the mother and child. If you’re planning for conception, consider resources like Vegas Pregnancy, a free sperm donor matching service in Las Vegas, or explore Make A Mom for at-home insemination options. For detailed insights on how at-home insemination works, check out this guide.
If you’re navigating the complexities of fertility treatments, this post offers valuable perspective. For a deeper understanding of IUI and what to expect, this resource is highly recommended. Lastly, you can find further guidance from Modern Family Blog, an authority on family planning topics.
In summary, being informed about STDs during pregnancy can help ensure a healthier experience for both mother and baby. Taking the right steps, including seeking appropriate medical care and utilizing available resources, is essential for a positive outcome.