It’s true: Most STDs are curable. But that doesn’t mean they’re not a big deal. Just because you have to treat an STD doesn’t mean that you don’t have something to be upset about. For instance, some STDs, such as herpes, can cause symptoms for the rest of your life. And other STDs can lead to more severe health problems later on down the line, such as AIDS or certain kinds of cancer.
Why do I need STD testing?
When you have an STD, you must take the necessary precautions to stay healthy. Anyone sexually active can contract an STD. A sexually transmitted disease has no boundaries and can affect anyone of any age, race, or gender. Without treatment, STDs can cause many negative health outcomes. Realizing that you may have contracted an sexually transmitted disease can be one of the scariest moments of your life. That’s why education and testing are so important, to protect your health and sexual partner(s).
Understanding STDs
An STD is a general term that encompasses a whole number of different infections, including genital warts, chlamydia, herpes, and HIV/AIDS. There are many ways that people can contract STDs, including through unprotected sex with a partner who has an STD.
If you are sexually active, it’s important to take STDs seriously as they have a significant impact on your health. Early detection makes treatment more effective, and it could save your life or that of your partner.
When to get tested
Some sexually active people may want to get tested regularly. Others might benefit from being tested in certain situations, such as after a sexual encounter that places them at high risk. Early detection of an STD is critical to treating and preventing health problems, including PID, infertility, and cancer. We offer convenient testing options at your primary care practice.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends specific testing based on your age and risk factors. It is important to know your status. Early detection of cancer can save you from more invasive treatments in the future.
What are the benefits of STD testing?
STD testing is particularly important since many STDs do not have symptoms. We help our patients understand why sexually transmitted disease treatment should be part of their routine health care, especially if they are sexually active with multiple partners. With confidential testing at our clinic, you learn if you’re infected and get treatment if you do have an STD.
STD testing offers peace of mind because it’s the only way to confirm whether you have an STD. You may feel embarrassed or hesitant to visit your doctor to request STD testing, but without answers, you could suffer from future health problems, spread the infection to other people and partners, or pass the infection on to your children before birth.
STD testing Also:
- Protects your partner’s health and helps stop the spread or development of STDs
- Helps you get early and effective treatment
- Helps protect your fertility, since untreated STDs can lead to infertility
- Protects your unborn baby from infection
Schedule confidential STD testing at our office by calling or booking online now.
