Sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Established links exist between adverse pregnancy outcomes and infections like syphilis (Treponema pallidum), gonorrhea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae), and herpes simplex virus.
• Less commonly recognized sexually transmitted agents also pose significant risks to pregnancy.
• Existing management guidelines primarily address well-known sexually transmitted infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase nurse awareness regarding the maternal and fetal health risks associated with less common sexually transmitted infections.
• To highlight the importance of identifying and managing a broader spectrum of sexually transmitted pathogens during pregnancy.
• To inform healthcare providers about potential threats to pregnancy from under-recognized infections.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on sexually transmitted infections and their impact on pregnancy.
• Identification of less common sexually transmitted agents transmissible during gestation.
• Synthesis of information on associated maternal and fetal complications.

Main Results:

• Several less common sexually transmitted agents can negatively impact pregnancy.
• These infections can lead to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes.
• Awareness and vigilance are crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, require enhanced knowledge of less common sexually transmitted infections.
• Expanding awareness beyond prevalent STIs is essential for comprehensive prenatal care.
• Proactive identification and management of diverse sexually transmitted pathogens are vital for safeguarding maternal and fetal well-being.