STD Testing and Treatment Referrals
If you are sexually active, you may be at risk for contracting a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD). There is no birth control measure that is 100 percent effective in preventing the spread of STDs.
According to the Center for Disease Control, there were 26 million new STI’s reported in 2018 and almost half of those were among youth aged 15-24 in the US.
Her Hope Pregnancy Center provides referrals for medical testing, diagnosis, and treatment of STDs for females who are sexually active and desire testing. There are many kinds of sexually transmitted diseases and infections and different ways you can contract a disease.
STD Facts
- You can get an STD the first time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex.
- Some STDs have no cure while others can be treated through medication.
- Most people infected with an STD do not know it.
- You can get an STD from someone who does not know he/she is infected.
- You cannot tell who has an STD by looking at them.
- Many STDs can be transmitted to a baby during pregnancy or birth.
According to the Mayo Clinic, STI/STDs can have a range of Signs and symptoms including no symptoms. That’s why they may go unnoticed until complications occur, or a partner is diagnosed. Signs and symptoms that might indicate an STI/STD include:
- Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
- Painful or burning urination
- Discharge from the penis
- Unusual or odd-smelling vaginal discharge
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pain during sex
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fever
- Rash over the trunk, hands or feet
What Happens if I Leave an STI/STD Untreated
How Could an STD Affect Me if I'm Pregnant?”
Common Questions About STDs
Anytime that a person engages in sexual activity, there is a risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. The use of condoms can reduce this risk, but condoms are not a guarantee. Abstaining from sexual activity; including vaginal, anal, and oral, is the only way to eliminate the risk of contracting an STD.
There are treatment methods for some STDs which can include antibiotics. If diagnosed with an STD, do not engage in sexual activity as you risk transmitting the STD to your partner. Speak with your doctor to find a suitable treatment plan. You do not have to feel alone. Schedule an appointment to discuss your situation confidentially and free from judgement.
Anytime you have engaged in sexual activity there is a possibility you may have contracted an STD. Even partners you feel you know well can and often will lie about their sexual health. Many STDs can be treated if they are diagnosed early. If you have been sexually active or suspect your partner(s) may have an STD, your first step is getting tested to be sure. We can help by referring you for help with that. Call or Text us.
Compassionate & Confidential
Remember that not all STDs produce noticeable symptoms; therefore, it’s recommended that you get tested for STDs regularly if you are sexually active with new or multiple partners.