Pregnancy can bring up many fears—especially when you’re unsure about sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs/STIs) and their impact on your baby.
At Pathways Clinic in Washougal, WA, you’ll find compassionate support and care that prioritizes your physical and emotional well-being. Our free, confidential services—like pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STI testing, and more—are designed to empower you as you consider your next step.
If you’ve recently discovered you’re pregnant and are concerned about STIs and pregnancy, you’ve come to the right place. Schedule your confidential, free-of-charge appointment at Pathways Clinic today.
Understanding STI Risks to Your Baby
STIs come in different forms and carry different levels of risk for transmission to your baby—either during pregnancy or delivery.
Bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can often be cured with antibiotics. However, if left untreated, they may lead to complications, including preterm birth or infection in your newborn.
Viral infections, such as herpes, hepatitis, or HIV, cannot be cured, but they can often be managed with medications to reduce transmission risk. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend a cesarean delivery to protect your baby.
Why Early Testing Makes a Difference
Many STIs do not show obvious symptoms, yet they can silently affect both your health and your pregnancy. Early testing helps catch infections early, ensuring timely treatment and reducing risks.
If you receive an STI diagnosis, it’s important for both you and your partner to get tested and treated. This not only protects your health but also lowers the chance of reinfection or complications.
Get Tested Today
Pathways Clinic offers free-of-charge STI testing for common infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Visit us today to get tested, and we’ll refer you for more testing if a full panel seems necessary based on your results. Your health matters to us.
FAQs
What types of STIs are you testing for at Pathways Clinic?
We provide free, confidential testing for common bacterial STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. While we may not test for all infections in-house, we’ll gladly connect you with trusted medical providers for any additional needs.
How soon should I get tested if I suspect I was exposed?
Some infections may not show up right away. If you suspect recent exposure, your provider may recommend repeat testing after a short waiting period to ensure accurate results.
Will testing affect my pregnancy options or decisions?
STI testing is a routine part of prenatal and reproductive care that should not impact your pregnancy options. Instead, it will allow you to receive the proper treatment and care to protect your health, no matter which pregnancy option you choose.