Why STI Testing Matters Before an Abortion

June 25, 2025

If you’re considering an abortion, it’s important to take steps to protect your health, not just emotionally, but physically. One often-overlooked step is getting screened for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) beforehand. Here’s why this matters:

The Connection Between STIs and Abortion Complications

When an abortion procedure is performed, especially a surgical abortion, the cervix is opened. If there’s an existing infection, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, the process of opening the cervix can allow the infection to travel further into the reproductive organs. This can lead to a serious condition called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).

According to the National Library of Medicine, PID is a potentially life-altering condition that can cause:

  • Scarring in the reproductive tract
  • Infertility
  • Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
  • Chronic pelvic pain

A study on the link between abortions and PID highlights that untreated chlamydia is responsible for nearly 30% of PID cases. Many STIs have no symptoms, so someone may not even realize they are infected, which means testing is critical.

How STI Testing Can Help Protect Your Future

Early detection of an STI before any medical procedure gives you the chance to receive proper treatment and reduce the risk of complications like PID. It’s a proactive step you can take to safeguard your reproductive health.

At Amnion, we offer free STI testing for:

  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • HIV
  • Syphilis

We also provide treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea, as well as provide information and education on how to stay safe. Our licensed medical professionals will walk you through everything with 100% confidentiality and in a supportive environment.

Knowledge is Power and Protection

If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, your physical and emotional health are both important. While you may be overwhelmed or unsure of your next step, getting accurate information and medical care can help you feel more confident and supported in your decision-making process.

We believe every woman deserves care that considers the whole person. We are here to help you take that first step.

Schedule an appointment for a FREE ultrasound or STD testing here or speak with someone directly by calling us at 610.622.9957.

All of our services are free and fully confidential.

*Abortion Complications study in the National Library of Medicine, published May 16, 2023 [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430793/]

*Preventing Pelvic Infection After Abortions study in the National Library of Medicine, published Sept-Oct 1995 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8547409/]

*Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), Mayo Clinic [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594]

Amnion Pregnancy Center is a life-affirming medical center. We do not perform or refer for abortions, but we are here to provide honest information, free services, and caring, confidential support.