Will I Pass My STD to My Unborn Child?

STDs, sexually transmitted diseases, not only affect sexual partners but can be passed to your unborn child. It’s important to know for sure if you have an STD and what kind of treatment is needed for you and your unborn child if you become pregnant.

The Risks of Untreated STDs

STD Complications for Women

The Mayo Clinic lists the following complications for women if STDs are left untreated:

  • Pain
  • Arthritis
  • Cancer
  • Heart Disease
  • Infection in the womb after birth

If you’re sexually active, getting tested is highly recommended, even if you’re not showing any symptoms.

STD Complications for an Unborn Child

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), babies are also at risk if their mother has an untreated STD:

  • Low birth weight (less than 5 pounds)
  • Eye infection
  • Pneumonia
  • Infection in the baby’s blood
  • Brain damage
  • Lack of coordination in body movements
  • Blindness
  • Deafness
  • Acute hepatitis
  • Meningitis
  • Chronic liver disease, which can lead to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis)
  • Stillbirth

Get STD Testing & Treatment

Whether or not you terminate your pregnancy, be sure to still get tested for STDs because if you leave it untreated, there is a risk for a uterine infection, also called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID side effects can result in chronic pelvic pain, an increased chance of ectopic pregnancies in subsequent pregnancies, or infertility.

You Are Not Alone

At Crossroads Women’s Center, we’re here to help. Early detection can drastically reduce the risk of causing permanent damage to your reproductive health. 

If you’re pregnant, it’s vital to get tested for STDs. Even when considering abortion, STDs or STIs can cause negative consequences. ​

Contact us today for a free and confidential STD/STI testing appointment. We also offer treatment if needed. You are not alone, and no insurance is needed.