Are you concerned about STDs? If so, you’re not alone. STDs or “sexually transmitted diseases” and STIs “sexually transmitted infections” is that awkward topic that people avoid talking about because of misinformation and the fear of judgement. 

Fear not. We’re more than happy to provide the space, privacy and information needed to address your concerns and most common questions about STDs/STIs. After all, knowing your status through STD testing is the only accurate way of knowing if you have one. AFC Urgent Care Springfield has answers to your common questions about STDs and STIs and important information about getting tested for them.

Staying Informed About STDs

STDs continue to be a growing concern among certain age groups. Even with a pandemic, numbers dropped and then resurged making STD awareness an important issue for every sexually active individual in the U.S.

Here’s what you should know:

• CDC estimates that youth ages 15-24 make up just over one quarter of the sexually active population, but account for half of the 26 million new sexually transmitted infections that occur in the United States each year.

• Not far behind, Seniors and the Elderly, especially over the last 2 years

• Congenital syphilis cases more than doubled

• Condoms cannot completely protect you and your partner from some STDs, like herpes, syphilis, or human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes genital warts and cervical cancer.

• It is important to get tested because although many STDs are curable and all are treatable, some do not show symptoms.

• In 2020, it was reported that 2100 newborns had syphilis 

• During 2014-2018 Syphilis (all stages) cases increased by 81%

• Gonorrhea cases increased by 67%

• Chlamydia cases remained at record highs

How Often Should You Get Tested For STDs?

This is the million dollar question. How often is enough? Once, or twice a year? The answer really depends on the individual. If you’re sexually active you should get tested at least once a year. If you’re sexually active with more than one partner, then this warrants more testing throughout the year. Even people having protected sex should be getting tested because contraception is not always 100% effective against all STDs.

AFC Urgent Care Springfield Can Help With Confidential STD Testing 

Unsure of where to go for STD testing? If you can’t book an appointment with your primary care or find a place to address your testing concerns, visit AFC Urgent Care in Springfield, MA any day of the week. 

• We offer weekday hours from 8a-8p and weekend hours from 8a-5p making it easy for you to walk-in after work or school to get tested. No appointment is necessary!

• 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.