Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases, commonly called STDs, are infections that are spread by having sex with someone who has a STD. You can get a sexually transmitted disease from sexual activity that involves the mouth, anus, or vagina.

STDs are serious illnesses that require treatment, regardless of whether or not you are pregnant. But, when you are pregnant, you are not the only one at risk; many STDs can be especially harmful to you and your baby. Some STDs, like HIV/AIDS, cannot be cured and may be deadly.

Your health care provider will likely screen for some STDs at your first prenatal visit, but if you have sex with someone who might be infected, you will need to be screened at subsequent appointments and treated. If you suspect you have been exposed to a STD, be sure to tell your doctor immediately. Fast treatment is the best way to protect you and your baby.

STDs include:

• Herpes
• HIV/AIDS
• Genital warts (caused by human papilloma virus, or HPV)
• Hepatitis B
• Chlamydia
• Syphilis
• Gonorrhea
• Trichomoniasis

What Are the Symptoms of STDs?

Sometimes, there are no symptoms of a STD. If symptoms are present, they may include:

• Bumps, sores, or warts near the mouth, anus, penis, or vagina
• Swelling or redness near the penis or vagina
• Skin rash with or without pain
• Painful urination
• Weight loss, loose stool, night sweats
• Aches, pains, fever, and chills
• Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
• Discharge from the penis or vagina (vaginal discharge may have an odor)
• Bleeding from the vagina other than during a monthly period
• Painful sex
• Severe itching near the penis or vagina