Regardless of whether one is pregnant or not, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can have life-threatening, devastating consequences on health and relationships. However, some STIs during pregnancy can cross over and result in premature or low birth weight babies.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Pregnancy – Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea
Chlamydia is a very common STI, which can result in the fallopian tubes becoming blocked, ectopic pregnancy and even infertility. As identified by Heaton-Harris (2008) in Sexually Transmitted Infections – The Essential Guide, chlamydia is believed to be linked to premature delivery and may be passed on during childbirth. Bacteria from the infection will typically affect the eyes and respiratory tracts, leading to pneumonia and pink eye.
Another common STI, gonorrhoea, may result in sterility in both men and women if left untreated, making it vital to seek treatment sooner rather than later. As with chlamydia, gonorrhoea during pregnancy may be passed on through childbirth, known as ophthalmia neonatorum. Heaton-Harris (2008) acknowledges that if the infected baby's eyes are not treated, this may lead to permanent eye disease, blindness, joint infection or even a life-threatening blood infection.
STIs in Pregnancy – Genital Herpes, HIV and Syphilis
Unlike most other forms of STIs, genital herpes and HIV cannot be treated effectively with antibiotics, leading to severe health complications. As identified by Heaton-Harris (2008), one of the main problems associated with genital herpes is that it can cause a potentially fatal infection for pregnant women. Thankfully, this is rarely the case, as now pregnant herpes sufferers are advised to have a Caesarean section, to avoid passing on the infection during childbirth. However, if one suffers from the first outbreak of herpes sores during pregnancy, there is a higher chance of transmission to the baby.
HIV is a very serious retrovirus, ultimately leading to AIDS, which can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth. The disease is also found in breast milk, making it vital for pregnant women with HIV to have a Caesarean section and bottle feed. Another STI, syphilis, is very hazardous when pregnant. According to Heaton-Harris (2008), syphilis can infect the baby during pregnancy, which may lead to stillbirth, developmental delay, seizures and be fatal.
As highlighted above, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, HIV and syphilis can have devastating health consequences to both mother and baby. The best way to remain free from STIs during pregnancy is to either practice abstinence or always use protection.
Source:
Heaton-Harris, N. (2008) Sexually Transmitted Infections - The Everything Guide Peterborough: Need 2 Know
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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