Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, are not usually common conversation starters amongst family or friends, but they are actually more prevalent than you think! They happen to millions of Americans every year, and they can range from mild to severe cases.
If you think you may be suffering from an STD, it is important to be evaluated and tested right away to prevent long term issues. Our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga team will care for you with the confidentiality and respect you deserve.
What Is an STD?
An STD is an infection that spreads through sexual contact. Many times, you can have an STD without showing any symptoms at all! This is why it is so important to get tested before entering into any sort of new relationship.
STD infections can range from mild and easily treatable cases to more severe the longer you wait to address any issues or symptoms you begin to experience. Give our clinic a call so we can give you the full breakdown of the kinds of testing we offer. We even offer rapid tests with results in less than 30 minutes for some common STDs.
Some STDS We Can Test For
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
What Happens If I Don’t Treat an STD?
If you don’t address your symptoms, you could very well pass the STD on to someone else and spread the infection rapidly. An untreated infection can also lead to further complications like pelvic inflammatory disease, eventual infertility, pregnancy complications and even bladder control issues.
It is better to know if you have been infected than to ignore any symptoms and hope that they go away. Early treatment is usually relatively simple, and you can go back to living your best life.
STD Prevention Tips
- Get tested between each partner or change in relationship.
- Use a condom during sexual contact.
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV.
- Communicate with your partner about diagnoses.
Are you concerned that you contracted an STD? Come get tested at AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga today.
