Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Pregnancy

Fact sheet about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy

STIs during pregnancy

Anyone capable of pregnancy can be infected with STIs during pregnancy and infect their baby during pregnancy or at birth. Some STIs can affect pregnancy as well as a baby’s development and birth. 

Many STIs do not have symptoms, so it is important to get tested for STIs during pregnancy as part of your routine prenatal care. 

How are STIs spread during pregnancy?

• STIs can be transmitted through oral, anal, and vaginal sex, as well as genital skin-to-skin contact with a partner. 
• STIs can be passed from a pregnant person to the growing baby through the placenta during pregnancy or they can be passed to the baby during delivery. 

What are my testing options?

STI testing should be a part of routine prenatal care. Youshould see a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of STIs, have been exposed to STIs, or if your partner has been diagnosed with an STI or shows symptoms of one. Urine samples, blood tests, and swabs can be used to diagnose STIs. 

What are my treatment options?

Some STIs go away on their own, some need to be treated with medications, and some may need to be managed for life. If you have symptoms or are exposed to an STI, talk to your health care provider right away. Early testing and treatment can help reduce the risk of passing STIs to the pregnancy and baby.  If an STI is passed to the baby, early treatment of the baby can help prevent future health problems 

What can happen if STIs are not treated during pregnancy?

• Some STIs can be life-threatening to the infant at delivery or cause infection after birth. 
• Some STIs can cause problems during pregnancy including:
  • Miscarriage (losing the fetus during pregnancy)
  • Stillbirth (a baby dies before delivery)
  • Prematurity (a baby born early) 
  • Death of the baby shortly after birth 

How can I prevent STIs during pregnancy?

STI testing should be a part of a care plan during pregnancy (prenatal care). Testing is vital to prevent future health problems. The sooner medical care begins, the better the health outcomes will be.

More frequent STI testing during pregnancy may be recommended if you or your partner has multiple sexual partners.

Other steps you can take to stay safe and lower your risk of getting STIs during pregnancy:

• Use condoms the right way every time you have sex and consider other barrier methods like dental dams.
• Limit your number of sexual partners with unknown STI status. 

 Medications like doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (Doxy PEP) can help prevent bacterial STIs after exposure, while HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (HIV PrEP) can reduce your risk of acquiring HIV. Take charge of your sexual health and talk to your provider about what methods are right for you.

Where can I get more information?

• Your doctor, nurse, or sexual and reproductive health provider
• Your health center or family planning clinic
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• The Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Division of STD Prevention & HIV Surveillance, Partner Services Program at [phone].
• HIV PrEP information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health