Gonorrhea during pregnancy- The complete guide for the mothers.

Gonorrhea During Pregnancy: A Complete Guide for Expecting Mothers

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can pose serious health risks during pregnancy—for both the mother and the baby. If detected early and treated properly, it’s manageable and preventable. Here’s what every pregnant woman should know about gonorrhea.

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a bacterial STI caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Many women don’t experience symptoms, which makes regular screening during pregnancy crucial.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Pregnant Women

Often, gonorrhea is silent—but when symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Increased vaginal discharge (yellow or green)
  • Burning during urination
  • Pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding (if infected anally)

Risks of Gonorrhea During Pregnancy

  • Increased risk of miscarriage or preterm labour
  • Premature rupture of membranes (water breaking too early)
  • Infection of the amniotic sac and fluid
  • Infection passed to baby during delivery, causing eye infections, sepsis, or pneumonia

Testing for Gonorrhea in Pregnancy

  • Routine STI screening is typically done during your first prenatal visit
  • Testing involves a urine test or vaginal/cervical swab
  • If you or your partner are high risk, you may be tested again in the third trimester

Is Gonorrhea Treatable During Pregnancy?

Yes. Gonorrhea is treatable with antibiotics that are safe to use during pregnancy. Your doctor will prescribe a single dose of injectable ceftriaxone and oral azithromycin or other alternatives if needed.

How to Prevent Re-infection

  • Your partner should also be tested and treated—even if asymptomatic
  • Abstain from sex until treatment is completed and symptoms clear
  • Always use condoms to reduce risk of future infection

Newborn Care if Exposed to Gonorrhea

If you test positive close to delivery, your newborn will be given antibiotic eye drops (erythromycin) immediately after birth to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum, a serious eye infection.

Internal Reads for Pregnancy and STI Care

FAQs

Q: Can gonorrhea cause miscarriage?
A: Untreated gonorrhea increases the risk of miscarriage, premature labour, and infection of the uterus or baby.

Q: Is it safe to treat STIs while pregnant?
A: Yes. Doctors use safe antibiotics during pregnancy that eliminate the infection without harming the baby.

Q: Can I get gonorrhea again during pregnancy?
A: Yes. You can be re-infected if exposed again, so both partners need treatment and precautions must be taken.

Final Word

Gonorrhea during pregnancy doesn’t have to be dangerous—if you act early. With routine STI screenings, proper treatment, and smart prevention steps, you can safeguard your health and your baby’s future.

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