Gonorrhea is a significant bacterial infection that can be transmitted between partners during sexual contact, which includes oral, anal, and genital sex. In addition, gonorrhea can be passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy. Therefore, undergoing testing for gonorrhea is commonly included in the standard screening practices of prenatal care. If you are in a monogamous relationship and both partners have tested negative, you may decide not to be retested, though it's important to note that the test is non-invasive and can safeguard both you and your baby if caught early.

How Is a Pregnancy Affected by Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea can pose risks during pregnancy, potentially transmitting the infection to your baby. If untreated, gonorrhea in pregnant women can lead to complications such as early miscarriage, premature delivery, and premature rupture of membranes. During childbirth, there is a risk of passing the infection to the baby through contact with the birth canal. Infants who acquire the infection may suffer from eye infections, which can cause blindness if not promptly treated. It's crucial to address this infection to protect your baby’s health.

How is Gonorrhea Treated During Pregnancy?

If you're diagnosed with gonorrhea during pregnancy, the course of action is treatment with antibiotics. These antibiotics are effective at treating gonorrhea, though it's important to be aware of the rise in 'drug-resistant strains' in the U.S. and around the world. Treatment typically involves treating your partner as well since gonorrhea is easily transmitted through sexual contact. Approximately 40% of women with gonorrhea also have chlamydia, which is why the screening for both is conducted together. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises dual therapy using two drugs for treating gonorrhea. Rest assured, the antibiotics used are considered safe for pregnant women and have a low risk of side effects.

What Are the Symptoms of Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea in women often presents with mild symptoms, and sometimes no symptoms at all, which underscores the importance of proactive prenatal testing. Men, however, may experience symptoms such as a burning sensation during urination, or white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis. Some may also have swollen and painful testicles. It is essential that if your partner experiences these symptoms at any time during your pregnancy, testing should be considered, as the infection can be transmitted between partners easily.

When Can I Resume Sexual Intercourse?

To prevent re-infection, it is vital that both partners complete treatment for gonorrhea before resuming sexual intercourse. Only treating one partner can lead to re-infection. Once both partners have been successfully treated, a follow-up test might be recommended to confirm the elimination of the infection. Your obstetrician will advise you when it is safe to resume sexual activities post-treatment.

Gonorrhea is a treatable condition, and it is vital for protecting both your health and that of your baby. Concerns about prenatal testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea are understandable, but with the right treatment, gonorrhea is curable, ensuring your infant is unaffected by the infection. Stay empowered through treatment and achieve health for both you and your child.