I Have an STD and Now I’m Pregnant

The surprise of being unexpectedly pregnant can be overshadowed by also learning you have an STI (sexually transmitted infection). Here’s why it’s important to know if you have an STI/STD and how that information can benefit you and your options when it comes to pregnancy.

Did you know that 1 of every 2 sexually active people will contract an STI/STD by age 25? This surprising statistic reinforces the need for accurate STI/STD testing, regardless of your pregnancy status. Many STIs are treatable with antibiotics but if left undiagnosed, can cause negative outcomes to you, your partners, and a baby growing inside you. 

It is routine practice for pregnancy prenatal care to include STI/STD testing so mothers can receive treatment for themselves, to avoid passing any infections on to their babies. According to the CDC, STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis and BV can all be treated and cured with antibiotics that are safe to take during pregnancy. STIs that are caused by viruses, like genital herpes, hepatitis B, or HIV cannot be cured, but in some cases can be treated with antiviral medications to reduce the risk of passing the infection to your baby. 

At LWC, we can test for the two most common STIs with the same urine sample as a lab-quality pregnancy test. Then, we offer treatment at no charge to you or your partners. Our discrete staff never judges your medical history or situations that might have led to you testing positive. Our goal is to help you have a healthy life, receive treatment if needed, and learn about the options for your pregnancy. Abortion is not the only pregnany option if you test positive for an STI/STD. 

To schedule a free nurse consultation with our staff, please contact us. We are here for your mental and physical health!

Citations:

https://www.cdc.gov/std/life-stages-populations/stdfact-teens.htm 

https://www.cdc.gov/std/pregnancy/stdfact-pregnancy.htm

https://www.cdc.gov/std/pregnancy/the-facts/default.htm

https://experiencingfreedom.com/stds-and-pregnancy

*model is stock photo

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional counseling and/or medical advice.