Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation, but it’s also a time when it’s crucial to prioritize your health. One aspect of your health that deserves special attention during pregnancy is the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
At the Pregnancy Care Center of Petoskey, we understand that STDs can be a sensitive topic, but we’re here to provide accurate information, compassionate support, and resources to help you protect yourself and your baby.
STDs and Pregnancy: Why It Matters
STDs can have serious consequences for both you and your developing baby. Some STDs can cause:
- Miscarriage or stillbirth
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Birth defects
- Infections in the newborn
Common STDs During Pregnancy
- Chlamydia: This common STD can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
- Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea can cause similar complications to chlamydia, as well as infections in the newborn.
- Syphilis: Syphilis can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, causing serious health problems for the baby, including blindness, deafness, and even death.
- HIV: HIV can be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. However, with proper medical care, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced.
Protecting Yourself and Your Baby
- Get Tested: Talk to your doctor about getting tested for STDs, even if you don’t have any symptoms. Many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning you might not know you have one.
- Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms consistently and correctly to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading STDs.
- Talk to Your Partner: Have an open and honest conversation with your partner about your sexual history and any potential risks.
Treatment and Care
If you are diagnosed with an STD during pregnancy, it’s important to seek treatment right away. Most STDs can be effectively treated with antibiotics, which can help protect both you and your baby from complications.
Pregnancy Care Center of Petoskey: Your Source for Support
We offer a variety of free and confidential services to support you during your pregnancy, including:
- STI/STD Testing and Treatment Referrals: We can offer referrals for testing and treatment for various STDs.
- Prenatal Education: We can provide you with information and resources on STDs and pregnancy.
- Options Education: We can help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your pregnancy.
Wrapping Up
STDs during pregnancy can pose serious risks to both you and your baby. By taking steps to protect yourself, getting tested regularly, and seeking prompt treatment if needed, you can significantly reduce those risks and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Remember, Pregnancy Care Center of Petoskey is here to support you with compassionate care and accurate information. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about STDs or pregnancy.
Medical information and statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy-hiv-std-tb-hepatitis/effects/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/sti/about/about-stis-and-pregnancy.html