While sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a well-known complication of childbirth, there are many other infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact that can also lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Here are some of the most common:
Gonorrhea is a bacterial STI that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. If left untreated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility. In some cases, gonorrhea can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth, which can lead to eye infections and pneumonia in the newborn.
Chlamydia is another bacterial STI that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It is the most common bacterial STI in the United States, and like gonorrhea, it can cause PID, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility if left untreated. Chlamydia can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth, which can lead to eye infections and pneumonia in the newborn.
Herpes is a viral STI that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as through skin-to-skin contact. While herpes is often asymptomatic, it can cause painful genital sores and recurring outbreaks. If a woman has an active outbreak of herpes during childbirth, it can be transmitted to the baby, which can lead to a potentially life-threatening infection.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral STI that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. While most cases of HPV are asymptomatic and resolve on their own, some strains of HPV can cause genital warts and increase the risk of cervical cancer. If a woman has an active HPV infection during childbirth, it can be transmitted to the baby, which can lead to respiratory tract or vocal cord warts.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a viral STI that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as through sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs. HIV attacks the immune system and can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which can be fatal if left untreated. If a woman has an active HIV infection during childbirth, it can be transmitted to the baby, which can lead to a lifelong HIV infection.
It is essential for pregnant women to get regular prenatal care and