- Life Choices Medical Center
Do I Need to Get Tested for STDs if I'm Pregnant?
Updated: Oct 19, 2022
It’s a subject no one really wants to talk about. We get it. However, protecting yourself against STDs is a way you can protect the future you envision for yourself.
While we advocate for getting tested any time you have had unprotected sex or changed partners, ruling out an STI or STD before an abortion can protect you from serious complications.
Why do I need to get tested if I'm pregnant?
An STI like chlamydia or gonorrhea can be transmitted to the fetus and can cause health complications. If you are pregnant, it’s important to rule out an STI and get treatment if needed. STIs are curable and treatment can ensure a healthy pregnancy and birth.
Do I need to get tested before an abortion?
During an abortion, the cervix is opened. If you have an infection, this can increase the risk of the STI spreading into other organs. Having an abortion procedure while infected with chlamydia or gonorrhea, two of the most common STIs, can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause lifelong damage and lead to future ectopic pregnancies or infertility.
If you are pregnant and considering an abortion, contact us today for free STI testing and treatment. We do not provide or refer for abortion services, but we can give you the medical information you need, including ultrasound verification, to make an informed decision.
What are the most common STD/STI symptoms?
Common Signs and Symptoms
Clear, white, greenish, or yellowish vaginal discharge
Itching or irritation
Pain during sexual intercourse
Burning sensation while peeing
Spotting or light bleeding (which can also be a sign of pregnancy)
Please note that the most common STI symptom is no symptom at all. If you have unprotected sex or have a new partner, it’s important to get tested. Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and diseases can cause life-long health issues, infertility and can even be fatal if left untreated.
How much does STD testing cost?
We provide free STI testing and treatment for women and pregnant patients. We can also provide in-clinic pregnancy testing and ultrasound confirmation so you can know how far along you are, if the pregnancy is occurring inside the uterus, and which options are available to you.
Give us a call or make an appointment today.
References:
https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/pelvic-inflammatory-disease
https://www.cdc.gov/std/healthcomm/fact_sheets.htm