Sexually transmitted infection (STI)

An infection that is passed through sexual contact. Many STIs can be passed to the baby in the womb or during birth. Some effects include stillbirth, low birth weight, and life-threatening infections. STIs also can cause a woman's water to break too early or preterm labor

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms depend on the STI. Often, a woman has no symptoms, which is why screening for STIs during pregnancy is so important.STIs can be prevented by practicing safe sex. A woman can keep from passing an STI to her baby by being screened early in pregnancy.Treatments vary depending on the STI.

Treatment

Treatments vary depending on the STI. Many STIs are treated easily with antibiotics.

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