Overview
Venereal diseases in pregnancy encompass sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can pose significant risks to both maternal and fetal health. Proper diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications such as preterm labor, congenital infections, and maternal morbidity.Diagnosis
Clinical assessment is primary, focusing on symptoms and physical examination findings.
Diagnostic techniques include nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), serology, and viral cultures for confirmation 2.
Specific tests for HPV include Pap smears and HPV DNA testing; for HSV, viral culture and PCR are recommended 2.Management
First-line treatments vary by specific venereal disease:
- HPV: Management often involves monitoring and removal of warts (e.g., cryotherapy, podophyllin), with no specific antiviral therapy recommended 2.
- HSV: Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir are used for symptomatic relief and to prevent neonatal transmission 2.
Adjunctive measures include counseling on safe sex practices, partner notification, and regular follow-up 2.Special Populations
Pregnancy: Management focuses on minimizing teratogenic risks; antiviral therapy for HSV is generally safe but requires careful monitoring 2.
Comorbidities: Management strategies may need adjustment in the context of immunosuppression or other concurrent conditions, necessitating individualized care plans 2.Key Recommendations
Screen for and diagnose venereal diseases early in pregnancy using appropriate diagnostic tests to prevent maternal and neonatal complications (Evidence: Moderate 2).
Use antiviral therapy for HSV in pregnant women to manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk, with careful monitoring for safety (Evidence: Moderate 2).
Counsel pregnant women on safe sex practices and partner notification to prevent reinfection and further transmission (Evidence: Expert opinion 2).References
1 Pimentel PAB, Giuliano A, Odatzoglou P, Ignatenko N, Wenceslau RR, Almeida IO et al.. Clinical Guidelines for Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumour Treatment: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Veterinary and comparative oncology 2025. link
2 Karagounis TK, Pomeranz MK. Viral Venereal Diseases of the Skin. American journal of clinical dermatology 2021. link
3 Burgdorf WH, Bickers DR. Dermatologic relationships between the United States and German-speaking countries: part 3--the Europeans come to the United States. JAMA dermatology 2013. link
4 Joshi R. U. B. Narayan Rao and the origins of the IJDVL. Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology 2008. link