The short answer is yes, you can pass an STD to your child in specific circumstances. However, regular testing and smart prevention techniques can help lessen the risk.
Whether you are wondering if you have an STD or are pregnant and want to learn more about your sexual health, we know this time can feel challenging. Crossroads Life Center will equip you with the information needed to make healthy decisions and take charge of your future.
Continue reading to learn more about how an STD can be passed to your child.
Getting the Facts
First, know that STDs can be passed to your child during pregnancy or childbirth. What’s more, as some STDs are asymptomatic, you may be unaware you have one until certain complications present later on.
Multiple STDs can be transmitted to your child, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, syphilis, and HIV. Each of these can result in different complications affecting you and your child’s health.
Potential problems for your baby that result from untreated STIs include:
- Miscarriage
- Preterm birth
- Premature rupture of membranes (your water breaks before being full-term)
- Low birth weight
- Eye infections (i.e., pink eye)
- Heart, skin, and joint issues
Though this information can be distressing to think about, know that resources are available to help you identify STD symptoms and receive regular testing and treatment.
We’ll help determine what’s next.
Protecting Yourself and Your Child
Wondering how best to avoid STD-related complications? The following are some ways to safeguard your well-being and protect your child:
- Learn common symptoms, including fever, pain during sexual intercourse, painful urination, and sore, swollen lymph nodes
- Get tested regularly if you are sexually active
- Consult your healthcare provider for specific screenings during pregnancy (for example, the CDC recommends syphilis testing)
- Learn the risk factors associated with contracting an STD, which include alcohol misuse, being between the ages of 15 and 24, and having sexual intercourse with many partners
- Identify prevention techniques, which include staying with one uninfected partner and avoiding illegal drug use
Additionally, having open and honest conversations with your healthcare provider can provide clarity. They are there to offer information and resources, not to judge or shame you.
Though Crossroads Life Center does not offer STD testing, we can help you find affordable testing in the community and answer your questions on pregnancy and health. We are here for you.
Here to Support You
Pregnancy can be challenging, but you don’t have to face things alone. Crossroads Life Center is here for women facing an unexpected pregnancy. Your well-being is important to us.