Let’s face it; everyone loves sex, but not when there is a risk of contracting a STD or STI. 

Welcome to STD Awareness Month!

As much as we love sexual intimacy, it can have a chance of coming with unwanted sexual trasmitted infections known as STI’s and sexually transmitted diseases known as STD’s. Yes, they are treatable, and manageable, but one has to take them very seriously. If an STD or an STI is left untreated it can really damage your body and potentially prevent you from having children in the long run. 

With that being said, AFC Urgent Care Torrington encourages you to get checked often for STD’s/STI’s because statistics show that numbers are increasing. To avoid the spread and to prevent contracting an STD/STI, AFC Urgent Care Torrington has created a guide exploring STD’s, prevention, and statistics you should be aware about.

Should I Avoid Sex Because Of The Risks Of Contracting An STD/STI? 

No one wants to have a fear of having sex. For this reason, we highly suggest taking safety precautions to avoid contracting an STD. Here are some ways you can prevent an STD and an 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).

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

Reduce The Number of Sex Partners - Reducing your number of sex partners can decrease your risk for STDs. 

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.

Avoid Sharing - sex toys, drinks and objects may have bodily fluids on them.

When Is The Right Time to Get Tested For An STD And An STI?

The statistics on STD’s/STI’s are a growing concern!

• All adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV. 

• All sexually active women younger than 25 years should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year. 

• Women 25 years and older with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners or a sex partner who has an STD should also be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year. 

• If you're sexually active, you should be getting tested at least once a year. If you’re sexually active with more than one partner, then it is highly suggested to get tested periodically throughout the year and to practice safe sex with a condom.

STD’s and STI’ss aren’t just transmitted by intercourse. They can be transmitted by anal, and oral sex as well. In some situations, STD’s and STI’s don’t have symptoms. Someone can have them without even knowing. Due to some cases of not having any symptoms, it is crucial for someone to get tested. STD and STI tests can prevent future health issues and the spread that we have seen in statistics.

Confidential STD and STI testing available at AFC Urgent Care Torrington

Confidential STD testing at AFC Urgent Care Torrington is a great way to fight the stigma around STDs and STIs. We care about your health and we want to prevent any future health issues an unwanted STD or STI may cause. There is no appointment needed when visiting our center. But, we also take appointments in case you want a more discreet way to check in. Here’s how to schedule an appointment. 

AFC in Torrington is open weekday hours from 8 am to 8 pm and weekend hours from 8 am to 5 pm. New service! You can now pay your bill online through our website!