Of course sex doesn’t always have to lead to an unwanted STD or STI. If you learn more about them, what your risk factors are and ways to test and treat them, you can avoid them altogether. This April is STD/STI Awareness month and the message is very clear:

The risk is not knowing. Get yourself tested to know your status! At the same time, you don’t want to leave an STD or STI untreated. In some cases it may impact fertility in the long run.  

AFC Urgent Care Natick encourages singles and couples to get screened for STD’s regularly. If you’re sexually active, you could be at risk for STD’s or STI’s. We've come up with a guide to help you stay informed and know what to do if you think you may have an STD.

STD’s/STI’s may be sneaky, but they get “around”

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 STI’s:

• Adolescents and people aged 15 - 24

• Gay, Bisexual, and other men who have sex with men

• Pregnant people

As you will see below, since 2016, Chlamydia has been the only STI whose numbers have dropped. The other three STI’s 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

How to Protect Yourself from STD’s and STI’s?

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).

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.

If you are experiencing STD/STI symptoms, you will want to be on the alert for the following:

• 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

STD Testing Is Offered 7 Days A Week At AFC Urgent Care Natick

AFC Urgent Care Natick offers Confidential STD testing 7 days a week with no appointment needed. Although you can make an appointment online if you prefer a more discreet way to check in.

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 and STI’s. STD testing is quick and usually consists of a quick urine sample, blood sample, and/or oral swab. Results for STD testing are available within a few days.

And now you can pay your bill online on our website. This way, it’s easier for you to check out discreetly after your appointment is done. Urgent care made easy for your convenience!