Will I Pass My STI to My Child?
If you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and are unexpectedly pregnant, you may worry about passing the infection to your child. It’s a common concern, but with the right medical care, some STIs can be managed to reduce the risk of transmission during pregnancy and childbirth.
Will I Pass My STI to My Child?
An STI may pass from person to person in blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids.
During pregnancy or delivery, some sexually transmitted infections can be passed from mother to infant. But early detection and treatment can help protect you and your child.
More About STIs
Viruses, bacteria, or parasites cause STIs. Viral STIs, like herpes and HIV, are often more complicated to treat and may require lifelong management.
Bacterial STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can usually be cured with antibiotics if caught early. Parasitic STIs, like trichomoniasis, are treated with specific medications.
STIs can be asymptomatic, which means you may not notice any signs or symptoms if you’ve contracted an infection.
If you do notice signs, you may experience:
- Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area.
- Painful or burning urination.
- Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge.
- Unusual vaginal bleeding.
- Pain during sex.
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin, but sometimes more widespread.
- Lower abdominal pain.
- Fever.
- Rash over the trunk, hands, or feet.
STIs can cause complications, such as:
- Pelvic pain.
- Pregnancy complications.
- Eye inflammation.
- Arthritis.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Infertility.
- Heart disease.
- Certain cancers, such as HPV-associated cervical and rectal cancers.
If you are aware of an STI, getting testing and treatment as soon as possible is essential. You can find this at Alpha Women’s Resource Center for STIs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis.
Find Testing and Treatment
Early detection is crucial as you seek to protect your health and your child’s well-being.
Alpha Women’s Resource Center offers no-cost STI testing and treatment so you can get the care you deserve.
Our appointments are confidential and in a safe, judgment-free environment.
Contact us to make an appointment.
Ultrasounds
Ultrasound is the key to determining if your pregnancy is viable (growing with a detectable heartbeat). We offer no-cost limited ultrasounds to give you answers.
Pregnancy Testing
Do you wonder if you’re pregnant? Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, getting a second opinion is essential. Start with one of our no-cost pregnancy tests.
Options Counseling
There are three options for an unplanned pregnancy. It’s essential to learn the pros and cons of each one to make an empowered and educated choice for your future.
Ultrasounds
Ultrasound is the key to determining if your pregnancy is viable (growing with a detectable heartbeat). We offer no-cost limited ultrasounds to give you answers.
Pregnancy Testing
Do you wonder if you’re pregnant? Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, getting a second opinion is essential. Start with one of our no-cost pregnancy tests.
Options Counseling
There are three options for an unplanned pregnancy. It’s essential to learn the pros and cons of each one to make an empowered and educated choice for your future.
