Blood tests for investigating maternal wellbeing. 5. Testing for sexually transmitted infections in pregnancy.

This article explores the issues surrounding blood testing for the presence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy. The aim is to provide an overview of the blood tests required and also of some of the wider issues around STIs in pregnancy. It considers aspects of physiology, pathology, the impact on the fetus and neonate of these infections and provides information about the blood tests themselves. It also considers the current NICE guidelines in relation to testing for STIs in pregnancy, as well as other relevant sources of evidence in relation to the management of these conditions. The article finishes with a consideration of the midwife's role in relation to providing information to women and for supporting them in their decision-making for testing for STIs.