Gonorrhea complicating pregnancy Save
ICD-10 code: O98.21
Chapter: Pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
Gonorrhea Complicating Pregnancy
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can complicate pregnancy if left untreated. It is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and is most commonly spread through unprotected sexual contact with an infected partner. Gonorrhea can also be passed from mother to child during childbirth.
During pregnancy, gonorrhea can lead to a number of complications that can harm both the mother and the baby. Here are some of the ways that gonorrhea can impact pregnancy:
- Preterm labor: Gonorrhea can cause the cervix to become inflamed, which can lead to premature labor and delivery. This can result in a baby being born too early and at a lower birth weight, which can increase the risk of health problems.
- Chorioamnionitis: This is an infection of the amniotic fluid and membranes that surround the baby in the uterus. Gonorrhea can cause chorioamnionitis, which can lead to preterm labor, premature rupture of the membranes, and even stillbirth.
- Neonatal conjunctivitis: This is an eye infection that can occur in newborns if they are exposed to gonorrhea during delivery. It can cause redness, discharge, and swelling of the eyes, and if left untreated, it can lead to blindness.
- Neonatal sepsis: This is a bacterial infection that can occur in newborns if they are exposed to gonorrhea during delivery. It can cause fever, lethargy, poor feeding, and other symptoms, and if left untreated, it can be life-threatening.
If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed to gonorrhea, it is important to get tested and treated as soon as possible. Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can cause serious harm to both you and your baby.
To reduce your risk of gonorrhea and other STIs during pregnancy, be sure to practice safe sex by using condoms or other barrier methods, and get tested regularly for STIs. If you have gonorrhea or another STI, be sure to inform your healthcare provider so that you can receive appropriate treatment and care for you and your baby.