What other infections might affect my reproductive health or a developing baby?

Hepatitis B can be passed to a baby during childbirth. This liver infection is passed through blood. Babies who are infected with hepatitis B have a risk of lifelong infection and developing liver disease and liver cancer later in life. Most people born after 1985 have received the Hepatitis B vaccine.

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by a change in the bacteria that are naturally found in the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis is not an STI but it is common in people who are sexually active. It can lead to pregnancy problems including preterm labour.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is also known as a ‘yeast infection.’ It is an overgrowth in the amount of yeast in and around the vagina. They are common during pregnancy most likely due to higher estrogen levels. Although much less common, the penis can also be infected with yeast. Yeast infections may be confused with the symptoms of STIs. When this happens, people may not seek treatment. If you have changes to your vaginal discharge or pain during sex or urination, check with your health care provider.

Zika virus is carried by infected mosquitoes. The species of mosquitoes that transmit the virus are found in warmer climates. It can be passed to a developing baby during pregnancy. This can cause birth defects. There are things you can do to prevent passing Zika virus to a developing baby if you are planning a pregnancy.