What If I'm Pregnant and Unsure If I Have an STD?
- Life Choices Clinic
- Dec 11
- 2 min read
While we advocate for getting tested any time you have had unprotected sex or changed partners, ruling out an STD if you are pregnant or before an abortion can protect you from serious complications.
If I’m pregnant, how will an STD affect my pregnancy?
An STD like chlamydia or gonorrhea can be transmitted to the fetus and cause health complications. If you are pregnant, it’s essential to rule out an STD and get treatment if needed. STDs and STIs are curable; treatment can ensure a healthy pregnancy and birth.
Why do I need to get tested before an abortion?
During an abortion, the cervix is opened. If you have an infection, this can increase the risk of the STD spreading to other organs. Having an abortion procedure while infected with chlamydia or gonorrhea, two of the most common STDs, can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause lifelong damage and lead to future ectopic pregnancies or infertility. We do not provide or refer for abortion services, but we can give you the medical information you need to make an informed decision.
What are the most common STD symptoms?
Common Signs and Symptoms
Clear, white, greenish, or yellowish vaginal discharge
Strong vaginal odor
Itching or irritation
Pain during sexual intercourse
Painful urination
However, one of the most common STD symptoms is no symptom at all. We help women stay informed about risks and how to protect themselves from contracting STDs.
How much do your services cost?
All our services at Life Choices Clinic are free and confidential, including pregnancy testing, limited STD testing, options consultations, and an ultrasound so you can know how far along you are. Don’t wait, get tested today! Call or message us to request an appointment.
References:
Pelvic inflammatory disease | Office on Women’s Health. (n.d.). https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/pelvic-inflammatory-disease
CDC - STD fact sheets. (n.d.-b). https://www.cdc.gov/std/healthcomm/fact_sheets.htm
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic. (2022b, April 30). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
Chlamydia trachomatis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. (2023, April 14). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chlamydia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355349