Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis

Course Summary

All pregnant women should be assessed for sexually transmitted disease to diagnose infection and begin proper treatment as early as possible to protect maternal and fetal health. Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be passed from the mother to infant during pregnancy and during delivery. An untreated sexually transmitted infection can lead to several adverse pregnancy outcomes and health outcomes in newborns. If treated early, the risk of fetal harm from a sexually transmitted infection is reduced and the prognosis is generally good. Treatment of a confirmed sexually transmitted disease should begin early, and be followed up closely during the peripartum stage and after birth to determine the development of maternal, fetal and neonatal complications. Treatments for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are discussed.