It’s STD awareness month! Although April is not the only month to care about an awareness that has grown in numbers over the years, we take it as an important message to remind everyone that STD’s and STI’s can be treated and most importantly, prevented if you take action early on.

Sometimes, this might mean having a “sex talk” with a new partner before actually jumping into bed with them. Knowing your risks and ways to prevent STD’s and STI’s will reduce your chances of contracting one. Keeping that in mind, it’s advisable to get tested to know your status. Untreated STD’s/STI’s may lead to serious health issues in the future.

AFC Urgent Care Danbury encourages anyone who is sexually active to learn more about STD’s, STI’s and testing options.The following guide has been created for you to understand and grasp the concept of STDs and STIs and ways to avoid them

All STD’s And STI’s Are Not Created Equal

These are some of the sexually transmitted Diseases (STD) and infections (STI) we should be alert and look out for:

Bacterial Vaginosis: (BV) is a common, treatable, vaginal condition which can increase your chance of getting an STD.

Chlamydia: Chlamydia is a common, but treatable, STD. If left untreated, chlamydia can make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant.

Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea is a common STD that can be treated with the right medication. If left untreated, gonorrhea can cause very serious health problems.

Syphilis: Syphilis can have very serious problems when left untreated. It is simple to cure with the right treatment.

Herpes: Genital herpes is a common STD, but most people with the infection do not know they have it. While there is no cure, there are medicines available that can 

prevent or shorten outbreaks. These medicines also can make it less likely to pass the infection on.

What are some common STD and STI symptoms?

As stated before, some symptoms may take a long time to be apparent or they may not even appear. When the symptoms do make themselves known, here are the symptoms you should look for:

• 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 but sometimes more widespread.

• Lower abdominal pain.

How Can I Avoid STD’s And STI’s?

No one wants to have a fear of having sex. Sex shouldn’t be feared, here are some ways you can prevent an STD/STI:

Use Condoms - Correct and consistent use of the male latex condom is highly effective in reducing STD transmission. If you have latex allergies, synthetic non-latex condoms can be used. 

Abstinence - The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal or oral).

Vaccination - Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV.  

Reduce Number of Sex Partners - Reducing your number of sex partners can decrease your risk for STD’s. 

Mutual Monogamy - Mutual monogamy means that you agree to be sexually active with only one person, who has agreed to be sexually active only with you.

STD Testing Is Confidential At AFC Urgent Care Danbury

AFC Urgent Care Danbury offers Confidential STD testing 7 days a week. Walk in or make an appointment here. We have convenient hours on the weekdays from 8a-8p and weekend hours from 8a-5p making us the best choice to get tested for STD’s. STD testing is quick and usually consists of a quick urine sample, blood sample, and/or oral swab

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