No one thinks they will get an STD, but the truth is, if you are at risk, you could have one. STDs can be silent; they may not show any signs or symptoms, so you may not even know you are a carrier. But getting tested for an STD is one of the easiest ways to take control of your health and ensure you’re staying healthy.
Here at Women’s Care Medical Center, we provide the testing you need so you can get the peace of mind you deserve.
WHAT Is An STD?
STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. These infections are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. However, sometimes they are passed from a woman to her child during pregnancy, birth, or even breastfeeding. Others at risk for an STD include those who share needles or are accidentally poked.
Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause STDs. Testing is important in identifying the causative pathogen so the proper treatment can be sought and utilized.
COMMON STD SYMPTOMS
STDs can be silent and show little to no symptoms. That’s what makes them so dangerous. Many people don’t know they’re spreading an infection because they don’t have any manifestations. If signs and symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on the type of STD present. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, some common signs and symptoms can be:
- Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
- Painful or burning urination
- Discharge from the penis
- Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pain during sex
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fever
- Rash over the trunk, hands, or feet
SHOULD I GET TESTED?
Anyone at risk of an STD should be tested to ensure they do not experience health-altering complications. Those who are at risk include those who:
- Have unprotected sex (this includes oral sex)
- Have sexual contact with multiple partners
- Have a history of STIs
- Are forced to engage in sexual activity
- Misuse alcohol or use recreational drugs
- Inject drugs
- Are between the ages of 15-24
We welcome you to our clinic for testing if you believe you are at risk for an STD. You deserve to have peace of mind and clarity moving forward. Don’t wait; take control of your health today!
