Over 26 million of people in the United States are diagnosed with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or STIs (sexually transmitted infections) every year. Pretty staggering, yes?  If you are sexually active, you’re at risk for contracting an STD or STI. There is no magic pill that will give you immunity from all STDs. You can only stay informed, practice safer sex and get tested to reduce your chances of contracting one.

STDs are silent and sneaky. Many don’t always show symptoms, and others lie dormant for years before displaying. If you think you may have an STD or have had a few recent flings that were not the considered “safe sex”, it’s time to get yourself tested. Knowing your status will help you start treatment and avoid the unnecessary spread of STDs or STIs to loved ones. AFC Urgent Care Danbury is here to help with a guide on STD risks and information on testing.

Don’t Rely Solely On Condoms To Protect You From STDs or STIs

Condoms are not 100% effective at protecting you from STDs. Even if you’re extremely careful and only have sex using barrier methods of protection, such as condoms and dental dams, you could still contract an STD. For example, herpes can still be transmitted from areas of the skin not protected by a barrier method (condom). If you have unprotected sex (without a condom), then there is even more of a chance of contracting an STD like herpes. 

The point is, don’t rely heavily on condoms as the only preventative method. It is not a substitute to skip out on getting tested. You can also get an STD by kissing, through oral sex, anal sex, sharing items, toys, and drinks. 

Getting tested is the only accurate way of knowing if you have an STD or not. 

The Risk Is Not Knowing If You Have An STD Or Not

Don’t spread the love just yet. STDs don’t always show symptoms right away. Going undetected or untreated for a long time may lead to complications. As both men and women can have severe cases of STDs, it is riskier for women who are pregnant as it can cause complications to their babies. In 2020, The CDC reported 2100 newborns with cases of syphilis. 

If symptoms do show up weeks, months or years later, you may experience:

• 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

Getting Tested For STDs and STIs Is The Responsible Thing To Do!

Knowing your status not only benefits you, but others as well. If you’re unsure of where to get tested for STDs in Danbury, visit our AFC location on 100 Mill Plain road for quick and convenient STD testing. We highly suggest getting tested if you’re starting to become intimate with a new partner or for a regular routine STD checkup. 

Here is what you should know about STD testing at our AFC Urgent Care center in Danbury:

• Our locations have in-house labs, so you’re able to get your results faster and are often less expensive than other clinics.

• STI and StI testing is confidential

• You don't need to wait for an appointment, which is extremely important when it comes to STDs. Just walk in whenever you're ready. OR…we do take appointments now!  Make one here 

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

• Lastly, our providers are compassionate, friendly and easy to talk to. If you have any questions or concerns about STDs our providers can help answer them.