It’s key to know everything about your reproductive health status when you are expecting. That includes sexually transmitted infections, or STIs. Many infections show no symptoms at all, and even when silent, STIs can have health implications for you, your pregnancy and your growing baby. The most severe STIs can cause birth defects, pre-term birth, and even miscarriages. A few simple tests now can save you a lot of worrying later.
Standard STI testing during pregnancy
See the chart below for a list of STI testing recommended early in pregnancy, along with some of the possible complications associated with each infection if left untreated. Keep in mind that recommendations for testing may include testing again at regular intervals, such as for syphilis, which should be screened for in the first and third trimesters and again at birth.
Why get tested?
As long as you’re sexually active, even if you are in a monogamous relationship, you should get tested. Some STIs, again, have no symptoms, and there could be an STI that has been present for quite some time. If you have any new partners during pregnancy, it’s wise to repeat testing and request partner testing when possible. And certainly, if symptoms you’re unsure about appear – new discharge, lumps, sores, burning or pain, it’s important to be as open as you can with your provider. OB providers are very experienced in helping people navigate what is or isn’t “normal,” and they want to help you be as healthy as possible.
Testing positive for an STI can create a lot of worry. The good news is that many STIs are fully curable with medication for you and your partner. Often, the emotional toll is higher than the physical one because there is so much stigma around STIs. Remember that screening for STIs is recommended for every pregnant person because these infections impact all types of people with every kind of background. You’re not alone and should feel proud of the care you’re getting for yourself and your little one.
| Recommended Testing | Test Type | Possible Complications, if left untreated |
| Chlamydia screening | Vaginal swab and/or urine testing | Pre-term birth, early rupture of membranes, low birth weight |
| Gonorrhea screening | Blood test | Miscarriage, pre-term birth, low birth weight |
| Syphilis screening | Blood test | Stillbirth, miscarriage, fetal death |
| HIV screening and counseling | Blood test | Passing HIV to baby |
| Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing | Cervical swab similar to a Pap smear | Risks vary |
Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical team
