STD Testing: Taking Control of Your Sexual Health

August 14, 2024

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are one of the biggest enemies to your sexual health—which is why if you’re sexually active, it’s critical to receive routine STD testing and treatment.

This article will explore the essentials you need to know about STDs and why testing is crucial for taking control of your sexual health.

Could I Have an STD?

Many of the most common STDs don’t cause symptoms, so it’s possible to have an STD and not know it. However, even if an STD doesn’t present with symptoms, it can still wreak havoc on your reproductive system.

When an STD presents with symptoms, you may experience any of the following:

Painful urination, which may feel like burning
Pain in the lower part of the stomach area
Lower back pain
Fever
Vaginal discharge
Vaginal pain during sex
Bleeding between periods
Rectal pain, discharge, bleeding, or itching
A strong vaginal odor that may smell fishy

This list isn’t exhaustive. Some women who have an STD don’t experience any of these symptoms, while others experience a few or many.

If you’re sexually active, regardless of whether you’re having symptoms, it’s important to receive routine STD testing.

How Does STD Testing Protect My Sexual Health?

STD testing is a simple, effective way to identify whether you have STD. This is critical because unidentified and untreated STDs can lead to:

Pelvic pain
Pregnancy complications
Eye inflammation
Arthritis
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Infertility
Heart disease
Certain cancers, such as HPV-associated cervical and rectal cancers

By getting tested and treated for STDs, you’re helping prevent these complications.

What if I’m Pregnant?

If you’re pregnant, getting STD testing is even more essential, as many STDs can pass from the mother to the baby and cause potentially life-threatening complications.

Where Can I Find STD Testing?

At Women’s Care Center, we care deeply about your health, which is why we offer complimentary STD testing and treatment.

If you’re sexually active or pregnant, don’t delay. Protect your health by contacting our clinic today.