Pregnancy and STIs
All forms of genital, anal, and oral sex have the potential to pass STIs, although there are ways to reduce your chances. STIs can be harmful to yourself and to your baby during pregnancy, as well as while you give birth. If there is a chance you could have an STI, or you are experiencing any changes to your body that fit with the symptoms of an STI, it is a good idea to get an STI screen.
STIs can also be passed from you to your baby during birth. These STIs can cause serious health complications to your newborn. Be sure to talk with your health care provider about getting tested and/or treated for STIs throughout your pregnancy.
You can reduce your chance of getting an STI during pregnancy by practicing safer sex.
Some ways of preventing STIs, like condoms, also stop unintended pregnancy. However, not all forms of birth control will stop STIs. For example, hormonal contraceptives (like the pill) will not protect against STIs. Lambskin condoms will prevent pregnancy, but do not prevent HIV transmission.