Can You Get Pregnant if You Have Chlamydia?

Can You Get Pregnant if You Have Chlamydia?

Though STDs have been reported for hundreds of years, the reality is that many people don’t understand these infections very well. STDs are unpleasant –– or in other words –– gross. So it’s no wonder that many people don’t want to learn the ins and outs of these infections. However, it’s very important for sexually active people to have at least a base knowledge of how STDs work. Today, then, we’ll provide some solid background information on one of the most common STDs around and answer a big FAQ: can you get pregnant if you have chlamydia?  (Short answer: yes!)

Do STDs Prevent Pregnancy?

Two of the most common STDs –– chlamydia and gonorrhea –– can cause infertility. It’s accepted fact that these STDs can lead to fertility issues or downright infertility in women. Chlamydia and gonorrhea may also inhibit male fertility. Untreated chlamydia and/or gonorrhea can lead to the scarring of the urethra as well. 

How do STDs Affect Fertility?

Most women who contract chlamydia or gonorrhea won’t experience outward symptoms of the infection. Relatively few will have to deal with fertility issues as a result of these infections. However, if left untreated, chlamydia and gonorrhea can damage reproductive organs –– most notably the scarring of the fallopian tubes. 

What’s worse is that chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Not only is PID very painful, but it can lead to infertility in certain cases. 

Chlamydia and Pregnancy

Having an STD won’t stop a person from conceiving. Still, STDs like chlamydia present a significant health risk to both mothers-to-be and their children. It’s possible for mothers to pass an STD on to their child either in the womb, or (more likely) during childbirth. In fact, infants born to mothers with STDs are at risk for developing birth defects, blindness, and deafness. Infants may even die as a result of contracting an STD during birth. 

In addition, STDs can cause complications to occur during pregnancy, such as premature labor, ectopic pregnancy, or miscarriage. 

Tips for Ensuring an STD-Free Pregnancy

If you’re thinking about getting pregnant, or if you are already pregnant, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure neither you nor your baby is affected by STDs. First, all sexually active individuals should get tested on a regular basis. Second, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should get tested along with their partner. Third, if you do test positive for an STD, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding treatment. In many instances, medical professionals will be able to treat an STD effectively even during pregnancy. And if an STD is untreatable, they may still be able to prevent it from spreading to your baby by taking preventative action.