Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also called sexually transmitted infections (STIs), do not always cause noticeable symptoms. In fact, many women do not realize they have an infection until it begins affecting their health. Left untreated, some STDs can increase the risk of pregnancy complications and may damage the reproductive organs, which can affect future fertility.
If you think you may be pregnant or have questions about your reproductive health, Pregnancy Care Center offers free, confidential pregnancy tests administered by a client advocate. If your pregnancy test is positive, you can also see if you qualify for a free ultrasound to learn more about your pregnancy.
Reach out to schedule an appointment today.
What Are STDs and How Are They Spread?
Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause different STDs, but they share one thing in common: they spread from one person to another through intimate contact. Most infections are transmitted during vaginal, oral, or anal sex, while some, such as herpes and HPV, can also spread through skin-to-skin contact. Certain infections can also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.
Because many STDs cause mild symptoms or none at all, it’s possible to have an infection without realizing it. If left untreated, some infections can lead to health complications, making early diagnosis and treatment through a healthcare provider important.
Can an STD Affect Pregnancy?
Yes. Some untreated STDs can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy or delivery. Depending on the infection, complications may include premature birth, low birth weight, or passing the infection to the baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and through breastfeeding.
Because some STDs can affect both maternal and infant health, the CDC recommends screening for certain infections early in pregnancy. Identifying an infection allows a healthcare provider to recommend appropriate care and monitor the pregnancy as needed.
Can an STD Affect Future Fertility?
Certain bacterial STDs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, can spread to the reproductive organs if they are not treated. This can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may cause scarring in the fallopian tubes. The damage can interfere with fertilization or prevent a fertilized egg from reaching the uterus, increasing the risk of infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
Untreated STDs can affect your reproductive health, so it’s critical to address any concerns as soon as possible. Pregnancy Care Center doesn’t offer STI testing or treatment, but we’re happy to connect you with a trusted healthcare provider who can handle testing, treatment, and any follow-up care you need.
Learn More About Your Pregnancy
If you’re exploring your pregnancy options, understanding your pregnancy is an important part of making an informed decision. A pregnancy test detects the pregnancy hormone hCG. What it can’t tell you is how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is developing in the uterus, or whether the pregnancy is progressing. An ultrasound answers all three, and each answer matters for both your health and whatever you decide next.
Pregnancy Care Center provides free, confidential pregnancy testing in a welcoming environment. If your pregnancy test is positive, you can see if you qualify for a free ultrasound. Our client advocates are available to answer your questions, discuss your pregnancy options, and provide support.
Contact Pregnancy Care Center today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.