There are many different types of STDs, and some can have severe consequences if left untreated. Some have more severe consequences if left untreated. Make sure to consult with a medical professional if you have questions or think you may have an STD.
How Do You Get an STD?
You can get an STD through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. You can also get an STD from skin-to-skin contact during sex with an infected individual.
What Are Some of the Symptoms?
STDs do not always have symptoms (even if you do have symptoms, they can often be mild).
However, you could still pass an unknown disease or infection on to others, which is why getting tested is so important.
If there are symptoms, they could include:
- Abdominal Pain
- Unusual discharge from the vagina
- Sores or warts on the genital area
- Painful or frequent urination
- Itching and redness in the genital area
- Blisters or sores in or around the mouth
- Abnormal vaginal odor
- Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding
- Sore throat
You may not have any symptoms, but it’s important to get tested annually or with any new exposure because it’s possible to pass an STD on to your sexual partner, even if it’s just skin-to-skin contact.
What are some examples of STDs?
These are eight common STDs.
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomoniasis
- HIV/AIDS
- Genital herpes
- HPV infection
- Hepatitis B
- Syphilis
Many STDs are treatable or even curable with medication. So If you test positive, make sure to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. Find out how to reduce or eliminate your risk of getting an STD.
How Do I Know If I Have an STD?
If you are having sex it is possible to get an STD and therefore, important to get tested as soon as possible.
Annual screening for STDs is recommended for all sexually active women 25 years and under. If you’re 25 or older and have a new partner(s) or other risks, it’s also recommended to get tested for your own wellness as well as that of your partner(s).
We offer no-cost STD testing for anyone who comes in for any of our pregnancy services. Contact us to request a confidential appointment today.