The topic of STDs is scary for most, but it’s crucial to know where your sexual health stands. Passing certain STDs to a child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding is possible.
With the proper testing and treatment, you can care for your health, your child’s health, and your partner’s health. While getting tested for STDs is essential to sexual health, it’s vital if you’re pregnant or considering abortion.
What is an STD?
A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is an infection that can spread during sexual activity, either from bacteria, viruses, or parasites. These can pass from person to person in blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases states, “…STDs can cause long-term health problems, particularly in women and infants. Some of the health complications that arise from STIs include pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, tubal or ectopic pregnancy, cervical cancer, and infections in infants born to infected mothers.”
Passing STDs to Your Child
It’s possible to pass certain STDs, including gonorrhea and chlamydia, from mother to child during delivery.
The following complications from untreated STIs can be passed to a fetus or newborn:
- Low birth weight
- Infections
- Blindness
- Deafness
- Meningitis
- Stillbirth
Get Tested Today
Get tested to stay healthy and be alerted of any potential infections. Since STDs can go undetected, you may only know you have one if you get tested. Testing helps ensure you can protect your wellness before long-term effects take place.
Do I Still Need STI Testing if I Want an Abortion?
Having an abortion with an untreated STI can increase your risk of pelvic infection. That’s why it’s essential to get tested for STIs and receive treatment before you choose an abortion.
Contact us and protect your health by getting tested today.