If you’re pregnant, STD testing is an important part of protecting both your health and your baby’s health. Many sexually transmitted diseases don’t have noticeable symptoms, which means you could have one without knowing it. Left untreated, some STDs can cause serious complications during pregnancy, including premature birth, infections, and more.
At RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics, we offer confidential, compassionate STD testing and treatment. Our medical professionals are here to provide clarity, treatment, and peace of mind.
Keep reading to understand why testing matters and what to expect during the process.
Why STD Testing Matters in Pregnancy
STDs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and they’re typically spread through sexual contact. Some infections can be passed to your baby during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, which can lead to complications such as:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Miscarriage
- Stillbirth
- Congenital infections
- Eye or lung infections in newborns
Getting tested early and receiving appropriate care can help you avoid these risks. Treatment is often effective, especially when an STD is caught early.
What to Expect During the Testing Process
1. Prenatal Screening
STD testing is often recommended during your first prenatal appointment. Your provider may screen for:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- HIV
- Herpes
These tests are typically done using blood, urine, or swabs from the cervix or vaginal area.
2. Follow-Up Tests
Depending on your health history, symptoms, or risk factors, your provider might recommend additional or repeat testing later in the pregnancy. This is especially important if you:
- Are under the age of 25
- Have multiple partners
- Tested positive for an STD earlier in your pregnancy
- Didn’t get tested during your first trimester
3. Treatment and Next Steps
If a test comes back positive, the next step is treatment, typically a course of antibiotics for bacterial infections. Some viral STDs, like herpes or HIV, can’t be cured but can be managed with medication to reduce the risk of passing them on to your baby.
Your healthcare providers will help create a safe plan for the rest of your pregnancy and delivery.
Protecting Your Health
Regular STD testing during pregnancy isn’t just about your health—it’s a way to safeguard your baby’s future. It also gives you the chance to learn how to prevent future infections.
Here are a few prevention tips:
- Practice abstinence (this is the best and most effective way to avoid STDs)
- Have regular, open conversations with your partner
- Ensure you and any new sexual partner complete full panel STD testing and discuss results with each other prior to any form of sexual contact
- Stay with one uninfected partner
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and HPV
- Avoid illegal drug and excessive alcohol use
You don’t have to navigate this alone—RealOptions is here to support you every step of the way.
We Offer STD Testing & Treatment
At RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics, we provide low-cost STD testing and treatment. We make it easy for you to request common blood and urine tests for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, and more to get the care you need.
We work with Quest Diagnostics to get you your results within 3-4 business days. All of our clinics offer walk-in visits for your convenience; however, making an appointment is recommended for shorter wait times.
Our trained Optimal Health Coaches and registered nurses are here to help. RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics offers services with or without insurance. Make an appointment today to protect you and your baby’s health.
Book a confidential appointment today to get started.
400 30th St #401
Oakland, CA 94609
(510) 891-9998
1671 The Alameda #101
San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 978-9310
12 N White Rd #1
San Jose, CA 95127
(408) 272-5577
33523 Western Ave
Union City, CA 94857
(510) 487-4357
Disclaimer: This website and blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content from this website and blog is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. The information provided on this website is intended for general understanding only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
