How can an STI in a pregnant woman affect her unborn fetus?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can have a variety of effects on an unborn fetus, depending on the type of infection and the timing of the infection during pregnancy. Here are some ways that STIs can affect a fetus:

1. Transmission During Birth: Some STIs, like genital herpes and gonorrhea, can be transmitted to the baby during vaginal delivery if the mother has active sores or infection in the genital tract.

2. Premature Birth: Having an STI, such as chlamydia or syphilis, during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature birth, which can lead to a range of complications for the baby, including breathing problems, underdevelopment, and increased susceptibility to infection.

3. Direct Infection: Certain STIs can cross the placental barrier and directly infect the fetus. For example, syphilis can lead to congenital syphilis, which can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe, disabling, and life-threatening consequences for the newborn, including bone deformities, neurological impairment, and more.

4. Low Birth Weight: Some STIs can lead to the baby being born with low birth weight, which is associated with a higher risk of infant mortality, as well as long-term health problems.

5. Eye Infections: Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhea, can cause eye infections in newborns that can lead to blindness if not treated promptly at birth with antibiotic ointments.

6. Pneumonia: Chlamydia can be transmitted to the baby during delivery and cause pneumonia or eye infections in the newborn.

Prevention and early detection of STIs are crucial in pregnant women to avoid these complications. Regular prenatal care usually includes screening for STIs, and if an infection is detected, prompt treatment can reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.