Chlamydia and gonorrhea in pregnancy: what to know

Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include unusual Vaginal Discharge, Painful Urination, bleeding between periods, pelvic discomfort, or pain during sex. Symptoms do not identify which infection is present, so testing is needed.

Untreated infection can affect pregnancy and may spread upward to cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Infection around delivery can also expose the newborn. These risks are reasons for timely care, not a reason for blame; either partner may have no symptoms.

Contact your maternity or sexual-health clinician for STI Screening. Testing may use urine or swabs, and the clinician will choose tests and treatment compatible with pregnancy. Take prescribed Antibiotic Treatment exactly as directed and do not use leftover medicine or share it.

Ask how and when your partner should be tested and treated. Avoid sex until the clinical team says it is safe after treatment, and use condoms consistently afterward to reduce reinfection risk. Attend recommended follow-up testing, even if symptoms settle.

Seek urgent maternity advice for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fever, fainting, fluid leakage, contractions, or feeling acutely unwell. Contact your clinician promptly for new discharge, painful urination, pelvic pain, or bleeding between periods.

Which tests do I need and when will results be available? Which treatment is safe in pregnancy? Does my partner need testing or treatment? Do I need repeat testing, and what symptoms require urgent maternity review?