April is STD Awareness Month. If you’re reading this, you’re on the right path for lowering your risk of getting an STD ( sexually transmitted disease), STI’s ( sexually transmitted infections) and are looking into testing options. After all, STD testing should be second nature if you plan on becoming sexually active.
Did you know that over 26 million people are diagnosed with STDs each year in the United States? About half of this number are young adults between the ages 15 and 24. Does this mean that testing options are not available for teens and young adults? Or does it mean that there is a lot of fear and judgment around STD testing and therefore young people are not getting tested?
Know what the next growing age group is contracting STD’s? Seniors and the Elderly. That’s right.
According to the Centers for Disease Control’s (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.
The truth is, STDs and STIs are unwanted, silent and sneaky. Most people don’t always show symptoms right away and you could unintentionally be spreading infection. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield wants everyone to be more conscious about practicing safe sex, knowing more about STDs and getting tested at our center to know your status!
Here are the top 4 reasons to get tested for STDs and STIs:
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Condoms Are Not 100% Effective When Protecting Against 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 or STI. 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.
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Intercourse Is Not The Only Way You Can Get An STD
You can also contract an STD through oral sex (by mouth), from anal sex, and even from cuts or open skin where bodily fluids can get infiltrate. You can also get an unwanted STD from sharing items, bedding, razors, towels and unwashed sex toys. The bottom line is, if you’re going to engage in any sexual activity with another person or to share items with someone, get tested together!
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Symptoms Don’t Always Show
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. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you can start treatment!
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If You’re Pregnant, You Can Also Pass On An STD To Your Newborn!
If a pregnant woman contracts an STD, it can cause serious health complications for the baby. There is a chance that the newborn may develop it as well. Studies from the CDC reported 2100 newborns had syphilis in 2020. Some of these STDs/STIs may be seen at birth while others may lay dormant and not be discovered until months or years later after they are born.
As we said earlier, many STDs don’t always show symptoms right away. Sometimes they appear out of nowhere. We highly suggest getting routine STD testing regardless of your age. If you’re sexually active, it’s time to get tested.
Get Yourself Tested and Treated For STDs and STIs At AFC Urgent Care West Springfield
With in-house labs and no appointments necessary, you can get faster results with less hassle so that you can get on with your life. STD testing at AFC Urgent Care West Springfield is quick, convenient and confidential making us the best place to go to for your STD testing/screening needs.
We are open 7 days a week and offer extended hours on the weekday from 8a-8p and weekend hours from 8a-5p for you to walk-in for STD testing.
Our providers are also very knowledgeable, discreet and professional when it comes to questions about STD questions. You don’t have to feel embarrassed or judged when it comes to STDs. Our center offers a friendly atmosphere making it a safe space to talk about your concerns about safe sex and STDs, and can treat with medications as well.
