STI Testing
If you are sexually active, you could be at risk of having an STI. An STI is a sexually transmitted infection that is passed between partners during sexual contact. For many women and men, STIs don’t show symptoms at first, which means that knowing whether you have one can be difficult. Therefore, it’s extremely important to get tested.
The CDC recommends women who are pregnant get tested for STIs. Regardless of your intentions for the pregnancy, (to carry, terminate, etc.) it is very important to make sure you are not positive for any sexually transmitted infections. Jewel Women’s Center provides STI testing as part of your appointment during a pregnancy options consultation. Contact Jewel today for a no-cost, confidential appointment.
STIs v. STDs
So, what’s the difference between a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) and a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)? An STD is essentially an STI that is showing symptoms. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, an STI refers to the stage of infection where symptoms are not present or not easily recognized. Regardless of whether a person is showing symptoms, if they have been infected with an STI, they are able to pass the infection through sexual contact with others.
Common STD Symptoms
As mentioned before, you may or may not experience symptoms associated with an STI. If you are experiencing symptoms though, it’s important to get tested immediately. Below are a few of the most common symptoms you may have when infected.
STD symptoms:
- Burning when urinating
- Unusual genital discharge
- Strong genital odor
- Genital itching
- Painful intercourse
- Genital warts or sores
Common STIs/STDs
According to the American Sexual Health Association, one in two sexually active individuals will contract an STI by age 25. Additionally, there are approximately 20 million new people infected with STIs each year. STIs are everywhere, and unfortunately, they can be easy to catch if you are sexually active. While most STIs are treatable, there are a few, including HIV/AIDs and herpes that are incurable. Here is a list of the most common STDs in the United States.
Common STDs:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Herpes II
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
- Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
- Trichomoniasis
- Pubic Lice
- Hepatitis B
If you are pregnant or think you might be, its even more important to be tested for STIs. Jewel Women’s Center offers STI testing and treatment for a few of the most common STIs. Contact us today for a no-cost, confidential appointment.