Sexually transmitted diseases and infections (also known as STD and STIs) are very common in the U.S and continues to be a growing concern for certain age groups, especially over the last few years. There are an estimated 26 million new infections in the United States each year and almost half of these numbers are young adults between ages 15 and 24. What is the 2nd largest demographic contracting STD’s and STIs? Seniors and the elderly. According to the CDC’s Annual Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance Report, 

“Cases of several common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have reached historic highs among elderly populations in the U.S. including chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis”.

Getting tested for STDs is important so you can know your status! The last thing you want is to pass it along to loved ones or go untreated for a long time. AFC Urgent New Bedford encourages everyone to get tested for STDs regardless of age. If you are sexually active, getting tested is smart, responsible and gives you peace of mind.

STDs and STIs Don’t Always Cause Symptoms

Symptoms for STDs usually don’t show up right away making it a big reason for you to get tested regularly. Many people can have an STD or STI and not know they have one! If an STD is left untreated or undetected, it may lead to serious health complications and conditions. 

Did you know that in 2020, The CDC reported 2100 newborns with cases of syphilis? Going untreated or undetected may increase your risk of becoming infertile, or passing it to newborns. In some cases, symptoms don’t develop until months or years later

But, What If I Do Show Symptoms?

What are the signs if you do have a breakout? Here is a list of the most common symptoms if you do have an STD:

• Discomfort or pain during intercourse or urination

• Sores, bumps, warts or rashes on or around the genitals, anus, buttocks, thighs or mouth

• Unusual genital discharge or bleeding

• Painful or swollen testicles (men)

• Itchiness in or around the vagina (women)

• Fever

• Flu like symptoms

How Can I Prevent Getting an STD or STI?

If you are sexually active, you should get tested at least once a year. If you have more than one partner, then you should get tested periodically throughout the year. Getting tested and knowing your status should feel like second nature. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about or to feel judged about. 

We also highly suggest practicing safe sex and these other preventative measures to reduce your chances of contracting an STD.

• Use condoms. Condoms lessen the risk of infection for all STDs. But don’t always assume that using a condom is 100% safe against all STDs. There is always a chance.

• Have fewer partners. Take control of the situation. Make sure that both you and your partner get tested and are only having sex with each other. This will drastically lower your risk of contracting an STD or STI. 

Can I Go To An Urgent Care For STD Testing?

YES!

STD testing is always talked about, but is it readily available? Maybe you can’t get an appointment with your primary care until months from now. Or maybe the Planned Parenthood clinic across the street closes too early before you get out of work. Unlike other clinics, urgent care is the easiest and most convenient place to go for all your STD testing needs. 

AFC Urgent Care New Bedford is the best place to get tested for STDs for these reasons:

• You can walk-in to our clinic and request a CONFIDENTIAL STD test with no appointment needed

• We are open 7 days with extended hours on the weekdays from 8a to 8p and weekend hours from 8a to 5p making it ideal for individuals who get out of work late or need to be seen on a weekend.

• 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 can write prescriptions, so if any medications are needed, you can pick them up where you choose discreetly and conveniently.

Our staff is friendly and knowledgeable about STDs. We make sure you feel comfortable and safe to talk about your concerns about STDs in a judgment free atmosphere. 

Always here for you!