Gonorrhea is a common STI in the United States. It is not uncommon for someone to be infected with Gonorrhea and not know; STI testing is recommended even if no symptoms are present.

Gonorrhea is caused by a bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae (N. gonorrhoeae) and it is spread by the exchange of bodily fluids during sex. It affects both men and women.

Having undetected gonorrhea during pregnancy can cause health concerns whether you plan to carry your baby or have an abortion.

If you plan to have an abortion, untreated gonorrhea, which is typically found in the vagina and cervix, can spread up into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries causing a more serious infection called PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease). Although PID is treatable with antibiotics, it can cause long-term side effects such as chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.

If you plan to carry your pregnancy to term, PID is also a potential concern if left untreated. According to the CDC, untreated gonorrhea can lead to miscarriages, premature birth, low birth weight, and the mother’s water breaking prematurely. It can also cause chorioamnionitis, which is an infection in the membranes that surround the amniotic fluid and the baby.

Something else that is important to know is that gonorrhea can infect the baby while passing through the birth canal during delivery. According to the Cleveland Clinic, if a mom gives birth during an active infection the baby “may develop an eye infection or blindness, joint infections or blood infections.”  

If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed, it is best to get tested to ensure that you are properly treated if necessary.

These potential risks are all scary, regardless of your pregnancy plans. Whatever decisions you’re considering for the pregnancy, Alcove Health can help.  Here at Alcove Health, you can ease your mind and test for both in one visit!

That’s right, you can get a pregnancy test and a test for gonorrhea during the same appointment. Both tests are free and all of our services are confidential. So please, come see us here at Alcove Health. Call or click here today for your confidential medical appointment.