Understanding Gonorrhea: Risks and Prevention During Pregnancy

At Crossroads Resource Center, we understand the significant impact that sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea can have on both your health and your pregnancy. This blog provides essential information about gonorrhea, including its risks during pregnancy and the importance of early detection and treatment.

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a commonly transmitted infection that affects millions globally, especially among young adults aged 15-24. It can infect the genitals, rectum, and throat and is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact. Recognizing the symptoms and getting tested are the first steps towards managing this infection.

How Gonorrhea is Spread

Gonorrhea is a highly contagious infection transmitted through sexual contact. It can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner. The bacteria that cause gonorrhea, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, thrive in the warm, moist areas of the reproductive tract, including the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes in women and the urethra in both men and women. The bacteria can also grow in the mouth, throat, eyes, and anus.

Key Points on Transmission:

Unprotected Sex: The most common way gonorrhea is spread is through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
From Mother to Baby: Pregnant women with gonorrhea can pass the infection to their babies during childbirth, which can lead to serious health complications for the newborn.
Asymptomatic Nature: Many people with gonorrhea do not show symptoms, which means they might unknowingly spread the disease to sexual partners.

Understanding these transmission pathways emphasizes the importance of regular screenings, particularly for those who are sexually active, to prevent the spread of the infection and to maintain sexual health.

Impact of Gonorrhea on Pregnancy

For pregnant women, untreated gonorrhea presents serious risks. It can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth, leading to complications such as ophthalmia neonatorum, a severe eye infection. Early screening and treatment are crucial to prevent transmission and ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

Prevention and Screening at Crossroads

At Crossroads Resource Center, we prioritize your sexual health by offering STI screenings for gonorrhea and chlamydia, the two most prevalent STIs in our area. We collaborate with the Health Department and local healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and treatment. We encourage you to contact us or schedule an appointment online to get tested.

Importance of Regular Screening

Regular STI screening is a critical aspect of prenatal care. It helps in early detection and effective management of STIs. If you're sexually active, particularly if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, regular screenings for STIs like gonorrhea are essential.

Treatment and Referrals

While Crossroads Resource Center provides initial screening, we refer patients needing treatment for gonorrhea and other STIs to specialized healthcare providers in collaboration with local health departments. This ensures that you receive the best possible care and treatment.

Protecting Your Baby

If you test positive for gonorrhea during pregnancy, it's crucial to start treatment immediately to reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to your baby. Effective treatment not only cures the infection but also prevents its complications in newborns.

Wrapping Up

At Crossroads Resource Center, your health and well-being are our top priorities. We are here to support you through every step of your sexual and reproductive health journey. Remember, early detection and treatment of STIs like gonorrhea can protect both you and your baby from serious health issues.

Don’t delay your health screenings. Book a free consultation today at our Moses Lake location by contacting us or visiting our online scheduling page. Protect yourself and your baby by taking proactive steps toward a healthy pregnancy.