Of course you won’t get a sexually transmitted infection or disease. At least that’s what you keep telling yourself, right? The truth is one in five people in the US have an STI, and half of new cases were among youth aged 15 to 24. If you are sexually active, you should regularly get tested because you may not even know you’re infected.
You May Not Have Physical Symptoms
Even if you have only had one sexual partner, getting tested for an STI is essential because it is possible to be infected and not have symptoms. Two of the most common STIs are gonorrhea and chlamydia.
The Mayo Clinic states that both chlamydia and gonorrhea are difficult to detect. They often have few or no signs and symptoms until much later. Without symptoms, people tend not to consider testing. Even with no symptoms, you could pass an infection to your sex partner.
Any time before or after a new sexual partner, both of you should be tested. Some STIs are easy to treat and cure, but others can only be managed.
Take Control of Your Sexual Health
No contraceptive is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy and in no way prevents an infection, so there is always a chance you could get an infection or become pregnant. Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are bacterial infections. Gonorrhea can grow in your mouth, throat, eyes, and anus.
Like your physical health, your sexual health requires regular checkups. Testing is easy. At PCS Health, a team member conducts a free test to determine if you have either gonorrhea or chlamydia. You should have the testing results within 45 minutes. If it’s positive, we can treat you the same day.
Often, doctors don’t ask if you want to test for STIs/STDs, and bringing the subject up can be embarrassing. Don’t worry. It is part of our job at PCS Health.
An STI Can Lead to More Dangerous Health Issues Later
If untreated, STIs can increase your risk of contracting other STIs, such as HIV. Some untreated STIs can lead to severe health problems. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), increased risk of getting HIV, ectopic pregnancy, certain cancers, organ damage, and infertility are some possibilities. Some STIs can cause death.
It’s Free!
The final reason to schedule STI testing at PCS Health is because it’s free! Sign up for your free appointment with our convenient online contact form. Text a message at 530-363-8119 or give us a call at 530-626-6720.
The latest data from the CDC indicates that the number of STI cases increased from the previous year. One year alone saw 26 million new STI cases. Don’t wait!
PCS Health does not perform or refer for abortions, but we do provide free pregnancy-related and sexual health services. Your appointment is strictly confidential. We’re here to help guide your next steps.