Infections can also lead to infertility. Effects on Pregnancy Almost all reproductive tract infections can cause serious adverse pregnancy outcomes. The problem of syphilis during pregnancy is one of the most widespread. In developing countries, between 1-19 percent of pregnant women test positive for syphilis. This is an extremely serious condition that can lead to maternal death.
Appropriate intervention is often unavailable in resource-poor settings.
Gonorrhea and chlamydia can also increase the risk of postpartum infection. Postpartum prevention of RTIs is the best method of reducing their effects on pregnancy. For syphilis screening, treatment of RTIs, and management of complications in pregnancy to be successful, pregnant women must seek and receive antenatal care services. Consequently, availability, accessibility, and active promotion of such services are crucial. Many STIs can be passed from woman to child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.