Could You Have An STD?
It is possible to have a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or infection (STI) but not experience any immediate symptoms. Without symptoms, people put off getting tested and, therefore, aren’t aware they are infected.
Untreated STDs can lead to serious health consequences such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and certain cancers.
How Do You Get An STD?
If you are sexually active (vaginally, anally, or orally) with multiple partners or with a partner who has had various partners, getting tested regularly for STDs is essential. Even if you practice safer sex (using a condom or other birth control), you can still get an STD. No birth control is 100% effective.
Not only is pregnancy a potential outcome of sex, but STDs are also a typical result of having multiple sexual partners – or even one partner if they are infected. People previously treated for an STD can get infected again if they have sex with an infected person.
How Will I Know If I Have An STD?
According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s possible to contract sexually transmitted infections and diseases from people who seem perfectly healthy and may not even know they have an infection.
Signs and symptoms mentioned by the Mayo Clinic 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 odorous vaginal discharge
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pain during sex
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin area
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fever
- A rash over the trunk, hands, or feet
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends getting tested at least once every year. If you’ve been treated for a previous infection, they suggest you receive testing every three months.
STD Testing Referrals
We’re concerned about every aspect of your health. We can provide referrals for no-cost confidential STD testing and treatment. Many doctors don’t automatically test for STDs, so ask during a regular checkup or get a referral from us.