Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are widespread today. According to the CDC, millions of new infections occur every year in the United States. Many STIs have no immediate symptoms, which is one of the many reasons people put off being tested. However, untreated STIs can result in serious complications later. Come to our center for free and confidential STI testing and treatment after a positive pregnancy test.
How Are STIs Spread?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) spread mainly through contact with the genitals or bodily fluids. STIs pass from one person to another through oral, anal, and vaginal sex, as well as genital skin-to-skin contact. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause them.
You are at risk of contracting an STI every time you have sex. Since many individuals have no recognizable symptoms, regular testing helps prevent the spread of an infection.
What We Test For
At Options Women’s Care Center, we test for two of the most common STIs: chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Chlamydia
According to the Mayo Clinic, chlamydia is a bacterial infection of the genital tract. It is the most frequently reported bacterial STI in the United States.
If left untreated, chlamydia can cause permanent and lasting damage to a woman’s reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries).
This infection can be difficult to detect because symptoms are rarely present in the early stages. If you experience symptoms, they typically begin one to three weeks after exposure.
Signs and symptoms may include:
- Painful urination
- Lower abdominal pain
- Vaginal discharge in women
- Discharge from the penis in men
- Pain during sexual intercourse in women
- Bleeding between periods in women
- Testicular pain in men
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is also a bacterial infection of the genital tract. The bacteria can grow in your mouth, throat, eyes, and rectum and can be transmitted from mother to baby during delivery.
Gonorrhea is very common, especially among young people ages 15 to 24.
The first symptoms of gonorrhea generally appear within ten days after exposure to the bacteria. However, some people may be infected for months before signs or symptoms occur.
Signs and symptoms of gonorrhea may include:
- Thick, cloudy, or bloody discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Painful, swollen testicles
- Painful bowel movements
- Anal itching
Free STI Testing and Treatment
Steps to reduce the likelihood of contracting an STI include the following:
- Abstaining from sex
- Getting specific vaccines
- Reducing the number of your sexual partners
- Regular testing for both you and your partner is recommended
- Being mutually monogamous
It is essential to know your STI status before having an abortion. If you have an untreated STI when having an abortion, the infection could be introduced into the uterus during the abortion procedure and can cause serious complications.
No one wants to think they might have an STI, but it is possible. Come to our center for free and confidential testing and treatment for both chlamydia and gonorrhea following a positive pregnancy test with us. Your health and safety are our top priority. Make your appointment today.
