You may not feel sick. You may not have any symptoms at all. But if you’re pregnant or think you might be, and you suspect you could have an STD, getting tested now matters more than it might seem.
Schedule a free, confidential appointment at Compass Women’s Clinic of Athens today.
What STDs Can Do to Your Fertility
Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two of the most common bacterial STDs, and both can damage your reproductive system without any warning signs.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, between 50% and 70% of people with chlamydia never notice any symptoms at all. Georgia has the fifth-highest chlamydia rate and third-highest gonorrhea rate in the country, which means exposure is more common here than in most states.
Without treatment, both infections can spread into the upper reproductive tract and cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID creates scar tissue inside the fallopian tubes that can block eggs from reaching the uterus, making conception difficult or impossible, and significantly raises the risk of an ectopic pregnancy later.
Caught early, both infections are typically treatable with antibiotics. The damage from delayed treatment is not as easily reversed.
What STDs Can Do During a Pregnancy
If you’re already pregnant, an untreated STD creates a different set of concerns. Complications can include:
- Preterm labor and low birth weight
- Passing the infection to the baby during pregnancy or delivery
- Eye infections or pneumonia in the newborn, depending on the infection
Georgia has seen its congenital syphilis rate reach record levels in recent years. In response, the state passed Senate Bill 46, which now requires prenatal STD testing at the first prenatal visit, again at 28-32 weeks, and at delivery. That law exists because early testing and treatment can prevent transmission to the baby.
Why STD Testing Is the First Step
Most STDs do not cause symptoms. The only way to know whether you have one is to get tested. If you’re pregnant or could become pregnant, knowing your status now gives you time to act before complications develop.
Free STD Testing in Athens
Compass Women’s Clinic of Athens offers free, confidential STI testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea. If you’re also pregnant or unsure, free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds are available at the same visit.
For complete prenatal STD screening, including syphilis, your OB or a local health department can provide additional testing.
Make an appointment at Compass Women’s Clinic of Athens, or call 706-707-6464.
