Is it safe to undergo NAAT testing during pregnancy?

NAAT is generally considered safe during pregnancy. But you should get it done only if your doctor recommends it.

Is it possible to carry a pregnancy, staying unaware of the underlying STI?

Yes. Some STIs may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. That is why your doctor may advise testing if you have certain risk factors or symptoms.

What are the chances that your baby gets an infection from you during pregnancy?

Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or childbirth. However, early diagnosis and treatment greatly reduce this risk.

NAAT Test During Pregnancy: Why Is It Done and What Does It Detect?

There are many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that may not show any obvious signs during pregnancy. But if left unidentified, they may pose risks during pregnancy for both you and your baby. This is because such infections may affect your ability to safely carry your pregnancy by causing potential complications.

Depending on the symptoms that you experience, your medical history, and your risk factors, your doctor might suggest the nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for you to check for such diseases as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

If these infections are caught early, timely treatment can be given, and possible complications can be prevented.

How Can STIs Affect Pregnancy Outcomes?

Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may progress silently without showing any noticeable signs, like pain or abnormal discharge.

So even when you are feeling completely healthy, you can still have an underlying STI.

However, if you do not receive timely care, these infections may cause certain complications, including:

Preterm birth
Premature rupture of membranes (your water breaking early)
Low birth weight
Eye infections in the newborn
Lung infections in the newborn
Passing the infection to the baby during birth, depending on the infection

An early diagnosis gives you the chance to manage the infection and prevent it from affecting your pregnancy outcomes.

When May You Require a NAAT Test During Pregnancy?

A NAAT is not part of routine testing for every pregnancy. However, your doctor may recommend it when there is a medical reason to investigate certain infections.

You may be advised to have this test if you:

Have unusual vaginal discharge
Notice pain or burning while passing urine
Experience pelvic discomfort
Have a previous history of an STI
Have a sexual partner diagnosed with an STI
Are considered at increased risk based on your medical history
Develop symptoms that require further investigation

Which Infections May Require NAAT Testing For Diagnosis?

A NAAT is commonly used to detect certain sexually transmitted infections with high accuracy.

Kind of Infection	Possible Concerns During Pregnancy
Chlamydia	May increase the risk of infection in the baby during birth if left untreated
Gonorrhoea	Can affect both the pregnant person and the newborn during delivery
Trichomoniasis*	May cause genital inflammation and has been linked with certain pregnancy complications

*Trichomoniasis testing using NAAT may not be available in all laboratories.

What To Expect During the Test?

You may expect the following during NAAT testing.

Step	What Should You Expect
Before the test	Usually, no fasting or special preparation is required
Sample collection	A first-catch urine sample or a vaginal/cervical swab may be collected, depending on the infection being tested
After the test	Most people can return to their normal daily activities immediately

Is It Necessary To Get Treated For STIs During Pregnancy?

Many bacterial STIs can be treated during pregnancy with medicines that are considered safe when prescribed by your doctor.

If an infection is detected:

Adhere to the prescribed treatment exactly
Do not miss your follow-up appointments
Your partner may need to be tested or treated, too
Do not engage in sexual activity until you have been told it is safe

Completing treatment helps lower the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Precaution To Reduce The Risk of STIs During Pregnancy

Simple precautions can help protect both you and your baby.

Attend all scheduled antenatal check-ups.
Practise safer sex by using condoms correctly.
Do not ignore unusual discharge, pain, or bleeding.
Inform your doctor if your partner has been diagnosed with an STI.
Complete any prescribed treatment without stopping early.
Discuss any concerns openly during your antenatal visits.

Knowing about NAAT testing can help you better comprehend why your doctor recommends it and support timely care for a healthier pregnancy.

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FAQs on NAAT Test During Pregnancy: Why Is It Done and What Does It Detect?

Is it safe to undergo NAAT testing during pregnancy?
NAAT is generally considered safe during pregnancy. But you should get it done only if your doctor recommends it.
Is it possible to carry a pregnancy, staying unaware of the underlying STI?
Yes. Some STIs may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. That is why your doctor may advise testing if you have certain risk factors or symptoms.
What are the chances that your baby gets an infection from you during pregnancy?
Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or childbirth. However, early diagnosis and treatment greatly reduce this risk.