Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that can be passed through sexual contact. Many STIs don’t cause noticeable symptoms, which is why testing is an important part of protecting your health.
At Greater Hope Care Center, we understand that questions about STDs can feel stressful, particularly when it comes to protecting yourself or your baby. Here’s what you need to know.
Are STDs Contagious?
Yes. STDs are contagious infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Common examples include chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, genital warts, HIV, and syphilis. They spread mainly through genital touching or sexual intercourse with an infected person. Anyone who is sexually active can contract one.
Regular testing is one of the most important steps to protect your health. Many STIs cause no symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your status. A mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative can significantly reduce risk, and abstinence eliminates it entirely.
Can I Pass an STD to My Baby During Pregnancy or Birth?
Some STIs can pass from mother to baby during pregnancy or delivery, affecting both the mother’s health and the baby’s development. Possible complications include premature labor, early birth, long-term health issues for the child, and uterine infection after delivery.
How the infection is passed to the baby depends on the infection:
- Syphilis can cross the placenta and infect the baby in the womb.
- Gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B, and genital herpes can be passed to the baby as it moves through the birth canal.
- HIV can cross the placenta and may also be transmitted during delivery.
Can I Pass an STD to My Baby While Breastfeeding?
Whether breastfeeding is safe depends on the specific infection. The following are general guidelines, but always confirm with your doctor, nurse, or lactation consultant:
- HIV: Do not breastfeed. The virus can pass through breast milk.
- Chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HPV: Breastfeeding is safe.
- Trichomoniasis: Breastfeeding is generally safe, but you may need to wait 12–24 hours after taking metronidazole.
- Syphilis or herpes: Breastfeeding is safe as long as sores are not in contact with your baby or pump parts. If lesions are present on your breast, pump and discard milk from that side until they heal.
STDs are manageable and often preventable with awareness, communication, and regular testing. If you’re concerned about a possible STD or don’t know where to get tested, Greater Hope Care Center can connect you with local STD testing resources.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential appointment.
