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STDs

Know the symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Know the symptoms of STDs so you can be tested and talk to your doctor about appropriate treatment. Treatment may help improve your symptoms and can prevent complications that affect your baby's health.

Chlamydia

Cause:

• A bacterial infection that affects the fallopian tubes, cervix and urethra
• If untreated, babies can develop eye infection, pneumonia and problems leading to premature birth

Symptoms:

• Thin or pus-like discharge
• Burning
• Frequent urination
• Lower abdominal pain
• Occasionally a woman has no symptoms of this infection

Treatment:

• Determined by your specific condition

Herpes

Cause:

• A viral infection. There are two types of herpes:
  • Type 1: above the waist, not sexually transmitted. A cold sore is a common herpes virus
  • Type 2: a genital infection that is sexually transmitted
• If present in the woman's genital tract during birth, there can be significant problems for the baby, including swelling of the brain. A Caesarean section delivery can help avoid these problems

Symptoms are similar for both types. Type 2 symptoms include:

• One or more blister-like bumps in the genital area, anus, cervix or urethra
• Inflammation, swelling and pain
• Difficulty urinating
• Flu-like symptoms

Treatment:

• Antiviral medications to relieve pain and prevent secondary infection
• There is no known cure for herpes

Syphilis

Cause:

• A chronic bacterial infection
• Syphilis can be passed on to the baby during pregnancy or result in a miscarriage if untreated

Most states require a test at the first doctor visit so treatment can begin right away

Symptoms:

• Chancre sore (a small, blister-like sore) that is pain-free
• Skin rash that is coppery colored with no pain or itching and often appears on the hands or feet
• Ulcers in the mucus membranes

Treatment:

• Antibiotics
• Early treatment can cure a baby that has been infected in the womb

Gonorrhea

Cause:

• A bacterial infection
• If untreated, could lead to blindness in the baby

Screening is done at the first doctor visit

Symptoms:

• Greenish-yellow discharge
• Pain when urinating
• Frequent urination
• Inflammation and swelling of the genitals

Treatment:

• Antibiotics

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Cause:

• A virus that attacks the immune system and leads to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)
• Babies born with HIV can have serious complications

A test may be done at the first doctor visit

Symptoms:

• There may be no symptoms, which is why testing is required to find out if a woman has the disease

Treatment:

• Medication
• Treatment during pregnancy can improve the chance of a healthy baby