Yes, STDs are contagious and can be spread to sexual partners or a pregnant woman’s baby through the placenta or the birth canal at delivery.
If you think you might have an STD, you may be tempted to panic, but seeking testing and treatment early is the best way to protect yourself and others.
Continue reading to learn more about common symptoms of STDs, the impact of STDs on pregnancy, and the importance of seeking treatment.
Symptoms of STDs
Symptoms of STDs vary based on the type of infection. Some individuals experience no symptoms, while others experience extremely unpleasant symptoms.
Symptoms of STDs can include:
- Unusual or foul-smelling discharge from the genitals
- Sores or bumps on the genitals, oral area, or rectal area
- Pain or burning with urination
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pain with sex
- Sore or swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- Lower abdominal pain
- Rash on trunk, hands, or feet
- Fever
Whether you’re experiencing all of these, one of these, or none of these symptoms, it’s vital to test regularly if you’re sexually active.
Treatment of STDs
Seeking treatment for STDs not only prevents the spread of the infection to others but can also improve symptoms and quality of life.
Treatment can help you avoid complications, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Bacterial STDs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be cured with antibiotics, while antivirals can be used to manage symptoms of viral STDs, like herpes and HIV.
STDs and Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant, STD testing and treatment are crucial to prevent the spread of the STD to the baby through the placenta or at the time of delivery.
While some STDs can be cured during pregnancy, others can be treated in hopes of preventing transmission to the baby.
Forgoing treatment can have detrimental effects on the baby, including:
- Infection in the baby’s blood
- Low birth weight
- Eye infection
- Pneumonia
- Brain damage
- Deafness
- Blindness
- Lack of coordinated movement
- Meningitis
- Acute hepatitis
- Chronic liver disease
- Stillbirth
Even if you’re planning to have an abortion, treatment is essential, as having an abortion with an STD can lead to the development of pelvic inflammatory disease.
Get Help Today
At Wellspring Pregnancy and Health Center, we offer free and confidential STD testing.
Additionally, we provide pregnant women with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy tests and ultrasound scans and have a caring team that can answer your questions and discuss your options.
Contact us today to make your appointment.
