Non-HIV sexually transmitted infections in pregnancy

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common, especially in young women, and pregnant women are inherently at risk. In pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections can have serious consequences for the woman, the fetus and neonate yet may remain asymptomatic throughout. Screening for many STIs is not explicit in UK antenatal guidelines and may be overlooked. Therefore it is essential to consider a woman's risk of STIs regularly throughout pregnancy and know how and when to undertake an appropriate sexual history and relevant testing. Early diagnosis and treatment, partner notification and multi-disciplinary management together with genitourinary physicians and paediatricians are key to securing good outcomes for mother and child.This article reviews the presentation, diagnosis and management of non-HIV STIs in pregnancy, highlighting indications for testing and important differences compared with management of non-pregnant women.