Talking about Sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) and infections (STI’s) shouldn’t have a stigma and it shouldn’t be looked down upon. It’s completely understandable to be a little overwhelmed, but no one should feel embarrassed about knowing their status. Why? Because knowing your status gives your knowledge to take action rather than delay treatment or increase the spread of the infection/disease to others around you. 

AFC Urgent Care Dedham is behind the message for STD awareness month by encouraging new partners and anyone who is sexually active to get tested to know their status. Here is what you should know about STD’s, STI’s and testing.

STD and STI Statistics Are On The Rise 

STD’s are diseases that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. These include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and HIV. Many of these STD’s do not show symptoms for a long time. You can get an STD by having vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has an STD. Anyone who is sexually active can get an STD. Some STD’s, like herpes and HPV, are spread by skin-to-skin contact.

The latest stats from the CDC states that the following people are most affected by STIs:

• Adolescents and people aged 15 - 24
• Gay, Bisexual, and other men who have sex with men
• Pregnant women

As you can see below, since 2016, Chlamydia has been the only STI that has dropped. The other three STIs have increased over the years. 

• Chlamydia - 1.6 million cases; down 1.2% from 2016
• Gonorrhea - 677,769 cases; up 45% from 2016 
• Syphilis - 133,945 cases; up 53% from 2016
• Congenital Syphilis - 2,148 cases; up 235% from 2016

If you are feeling unwell or have questionable symptoms, be on the alert for these most common STD/STI symptoms:

• Painful or frequent urination
• Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
• Sores or warts on the genital region
• Itching and redness in the genital region
• Blisters or sores in or around the mouth
• Abnormal vaginal odor
• Anal itching, soreness or bleeding
• Abdominal pain
• Fever

Tips On How To Avoid STD’s And STI’s

Here are some helpful tips in preventing a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and disease (STD):

Vaccinations - 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.

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. 

Avoiding STD’s/STI’s Begins With A Confidential Appointment At AFC Urgent Care Dedham

AFC Urgent Care Dedham offers confidential STD and STI testing 7 days a week! Our staff is friendly and knowledgeable about STD’s. We make sure you feel comfortable and safe to talk about your concerns about STD’s in a judgment free atmosphere. Always here for you!

• Our locations have in-house labs, so you’re able to get your results faster and are often less expensive than at other clinics.
• Our providers are discreet and professional and can write prescriptions, so if any medications are needed, you can pick them up where you choose conveniently.
• We offer appointments for a discreet way to check in
• We also offer a convenient way for you to pay your bill so you can check out in a more discreet way!