Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease, or STD, caused by a bacterial infection. The Centers for Disease Control reports that each year 3 million people contract chlamydia, making it the most common STD. Pregnant women are routinely screened for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases early in pregnancy. Infections should be treated promptly to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.
Significance
Chlamydia is especially dangerous for pregnant women because the infection can be passed to the baby, causing complications such as miscarriage, preterm labor, eye infections and pneumonia, according to Baby Center. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that pregnant women be tested for chlamydia infections during their first prenatal appointment. Women who are at risk for acquiring the infection later in pregnancy should be retested as necessary.
Medications
Chlamydia infections can be treated and completely cured during pregnancy with the administration of antibiotics. Several antibiotics are considered safe during pregnancy. Wright State University recommends a single dose of azithromycin in a dose of 1g. Taking one dose is easier for patients than remembering to take multiple doses over the course of a week. Other treatment options include erythromycin and amoxicillin, both taken for seven days.
Time Frame
Chlamydia infections should be treated as soon as possible, no matter when it is detected during pregnancy, says Dr. Marjorie Greenfield. Even infections acquired during the third trimester can be safely treated using antibiotics. Any patient who suspects that a chlamydia infection or other STD could have been acquired after initial first trimester testing should alert her medical provider for repeat testing.
Side Effects
Antibiotics given to treat chlamydia during pregnancy can cause side effects. Azithromycin, erythromycin and amoxicillin can all cause problems with the digestive system, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite, according to Drugs.com. Dizziness and confusion are also common side effects.
Warning
Patients who are diagnosed with chlamydia should have their partner tested and treated to avoid becoming re-infected. It is important that both partners complete the full course of antibiotics and get retested after treatment to ensure that the infection has completely cleared to avoid causing complications to the baby.
