Ministry of Health promotes prevention of STIs in pregnancies to protect babies.

In the context of public health, the Ministry of Health has launched a broad call to action regarding the prevention and control of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy. The vertical transmission of these infections, which can occur from the pregnant person to their baby, poses a serious risk that can be prevented with proper management and monitoring during the gestation period. This is why there is an emphasis on the need for diagnostic testing for both the pregnant woman and her sexual partner. STIs are a group of diseases that can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse. While all can be dangerous, the most common and concerning during pregnancy are HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. Of these, it has been shown that early and appropriate treatment can not only improve the quality of life of the affected person but also ensure that the baby is born healthy. In the specific case of HIV and hepatitis B, testing during pregnancy is crucial. Early diagnosis allows individuals to access treatments that have proven effective in preventing transmission to the newborn. The implementation of preventive measures has, in many cases, significantly reduced the incidence of infections through perinatal transmission. On the other hand, syphilis, although curable with relatively simple treatment, continues to pose a significant challenge, as its transmission can trigger severe complications in the fetus. A simple test can prevent this disease from affecting both the pregnant person and their baby. Laura Caporaletti, the head of the Sexually Transmitted Diseases program, has emphasized the importance of the active role of health teams in this context, urging professionals to inform about safe sexual practices. In addition to testing during pregnancy, continuous and thorough monitoring is recommended, not only for the pregnant woman but also for her partners. This is essential since a person can be a carrier of an STI without showing symptoms. Unfortunately, these infections often do not present visible signs, which can lead to silent transmission and an increase in cases. The most common symptoms, when they occur, may include unusual discharges, sores, or warts in genital areas. However, most STIs can be asymptomatic, making regular diagnostic testing even more vital. The main recommendation continues to be the proper use of condoms, in addition to the specific vaccination available for certain viruses such as hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV). Currently, Salta is facing an increase in the transmission of syphilis, with 259 cases reported in pregnant women during the year 2024. Of these, only 9 were detected during pregnancy, highlighting the need for greater vigilance and monitoring. Additionally, 69 cases of congenital syphilis have been recorded, indicating a concerning trend that requires immediate attention. Regarding HIV, 59 pregnant women have been diagnosed and treated, ensuring that none of the exposed children have tested positive, which is an encouraging sign of the positive impact of prenatal care on maternal and child health. Preventive practices are yielding results, but there is still a long way to go to completely eradicate STIs and their complications. Raising awareness and educating the community about the importance of preventing these infections is fundamental. Health teams must play an active role in promoting sexual and reproductive health, ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary information to protect themselves and their future children. Health during pregnancy is not just a private matter; it is a public health issue that demands attention and commitment from all.