Non-HIV sexually transmitted infections in pregnancy

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) directly impact sexual and reproductive health, with a particular burden in women. They can lead to significant adverse complications and outcomes during pregnancy, and infertility. Antenatal care guidance focuses on a holistic approach, ensuring risk assessments are carried out at every appointment. Except for performing hepatitis B/HIV/syphilis serology at booking appointments, STIs are often overlooked. There are no explicit recommendations on when to perform STI screening tests during pregnancy. Given the current burden (and potential impact) of STIs, it is imperative these are considered during antenatal appointments and screened for appropriately. Early detection and treatment are necessary to secure good outcomes for the pregnant person and fetus. Partner notification is essential to halt transmission and prevent reinfection. Management should be via a multidisciplinary, cross-specialty approach. In this article we review various (non-HIV) STIs in pregnancy - focusing on presentation, diagnosis, management, and possible complications of each.