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How can sexually transmitted infections pass from a mother to a child?
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reproductive system disease
Varicocele, enlargement of the veins of the spermatic cord, is a cause of infertility in men.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be transmitted from a mother to her child through a process known as vertical or perinatal transmission. This transmission can occur at several stages:1
- Before birth: Some infections can pass from the mother to the fetus during pregnancy.2
- At birth: Transmission can occur during labor or delivery as the infant passes through the birth canal.12
- After birth: Certain infections, such as HIV, can be passed to the infant through breast-feeding.1
The risk of transmission varies by infection and can often be managed through appropriate medical intervention. For example, the risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission can be reduced significantly through the use of antiretroviral drugs, elective cesarean sections, and formula feeding. Because these infections can lead to serious health complications for the newborn, early prenatal care and screening are essential for identifying risks and ensuring the best possible outcomes for both mother and child.13