Can STDs Affect My Pregnancy or Future Fertility?

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If you are pregnant and think you could have a sexually transmitted disease (STD), you may be concerned about how it could affect your health or future fertility.

Early testing helps identify infections that can lead to complications during pregnancy if left untreated. Many STDs can be diagnosed with simple tests and treated with medication.

At NorthStar Women’s Center, we offer STD testing and treatment for gonorrhea and chlamydia as well as pregnancy tests and ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy. Our services are free and private, so you can get the information you need to protect your health.

Schedule your appointment today.

STDs and Fertility

Some of the most common STDs, including gonorrhea and chlamydia, can affect your fertility if left untreated. Both of these infections can spread to your reproductive system, potentially causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can eventually cause infertility and chronic pelvic pain if left untreated, and can block your fallopian tubes, increasing the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy in the future.

This is one of the reasons why routine STD testing, especially for those under 25 years old, is recommended. Many STDs do not cause noticeable symptoms. For example, it’s estimated that between 50% and 70% of people who have chlamydia, regardless of sex, don’t have symptoms.

Early detection and treatment can reduce the risk of complications that may affect fertility.

How STDs Can Impact Pregnancy

Untreated STDs can sometimes cause complications in pregnancy for both the mother and the baby.

Some effects of STDs on pregnancy include:

Pre-term delivery
Passing the infection to your newborn, which may cause infections such as pneumonia or conjunctivitis, and eventual blindness in the newborn if left untreated

Because of these risks, healthcare providers often recommend STD testing as part of early prenatal care.

Why Early Testing Matters

Without early testing, most people don’t know they have an STD since they are not symptomatic. If chlamydia or gonorrhea is detected early, it can usually be treated promptly with antibiotics.

Along with pregnancy testing and ultrasound, STD testing can provide more complete information about your reproductive health. Even if you aren’t pregnant, getting tested for STDs is important to protect your future fertility.

Get STD Testing at NorthStar Women’s Center

If you suspect you could have an STD, are pregnant, or think you could be pregnant, getting free and confidential STD testing at our center is the next step to take care of your health.

If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy, we are here to support you with free pregnancy services and options information in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.