Will I Pass My STD to My Child?

If you’re pregnant or think you might be and know that you have a sexually transmitted disease or infection (STD/STI), it’s natural to feel concerned about your baby’s health. Some STDs can be passed from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.

The best way to protect your child and yourself is to get tested and treated as soon as possible.

Schedule a confidential, no-cost appointment today at Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise. Our medical team provides free STD, HIV, Hepatitis B, and Syphilis testing as well as treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea, along with caring support every step of the way.

Can STIs Affect My Pregnancy?

Yes, some STIs can cause complications during pregnancy and childbirth if not treated. Conditions like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HIV, and hepatitis B can affect both the mother and baby in different ways.

In some cases, STIs can increase the risk of premature rupture of membranes (water breaking before it’s time for labor), preterm labor, and low birth weight. There are additional risks depending on the STI. For instance, herpes or gonorrhea can spread to the baby during delivery, leading to serious infections in the eyes and even blindness, among other issues.

The good news is that with early testing and treatment, many of these risks can be reduced or even prevented.

How STIs Are Passed to a Baby

Some STIs can be transmitted in different ways:

• During pregnancy, STIs (syphilis and hepatitis B) can be transmitted through the placenta
• During childbirth, STIs can spread as the baby passes through the birth canal, such as with open herpes sores.
• After birth, an STI (such as HIV) can spread to the baby through breastmilk.

Even if you don’t have symptoms, it’s important to get tested early in pregnancy or as soon as you think you might be pregnant.

How STDs Are Treated During Pregnancy

Treatment depends on the type of infection.

• Bacterial STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be cured with antibiotics that are safe during pregnancy.
• Viral STDs such as herpes, hepatitis B, and HIV cannot be cured, but medications can reduce symptoms, manage viral load, and lower the chance of transmission to your baby.

Your healthcare provider may also recommend additional steps, such as a C-section, if you have active herpes lesions at delivery.

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise Can Help

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise offers no-cost, confidential STD, HIV, Hepatitis B, and Syphilis testing as well as treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea for both men and women.  If you test positive, our medical staff can provide treatment and guide you toward further care if needed.

Your health and your baby’s health are important to us. Contact Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise today to schedule your free appointment and take the next step toward protecting your future.