If you are sexually active, there is a chance you could contract an STD. Sexually transmitted diseases can lead to serious health complications if not treated right away.
According to the World Health Organization, ‘More than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic.’ Get tested today to be sure of where your sexual health stands.
What Are STDs?
You can contract sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) through sexual contact. The bacteria, viruses, or parasites that cause STDs can pass from person to person in blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids.
Signs of infection or disease may not come with apparent symptoms, so getting tested is essential if you are sexually active.
Are STDs Treatable?
Statistics show that ‘Today, no fewer than 1 in 5 people are living with an STI, while more than 26 million are newly infected with either a curable or incurable STI.’
Not all STDs are curable, but treatment can greatly help. The two main types of STDs are bacterial and viral. Bacterial STDs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, are treated using antibiotics.
Viral STDs like herpes or the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cannot be cured but are treatable. Those diagnosed with a viral STD will always live with it, but treatment is available that can help make the symptoms less severe. It is possible for HPV to go away on its own, but if it does not, it can lead to long-term health problems.
Risks of STDs
Letting an STD go untreated can harm your health, and that is why STD testing is so essential. According to the Mayo Clinic, complications of STDs can include:
- Pelvic pain
- Pregnancy complications
- Eye inflammation
- Arthritis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Infertility
- Heart disease
- Certain cancers, such as HPV-associated cervical, rectal, and oral cancers
Still have some questions? You are not alone. Don’t worry or wonder any longer. Get tested today to receive clarity about STDs and your sexual health journey.
Our team at North Care currently offers free STD testing and treatment for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea (both males and females), Trichomoniasis, and Bacterial Vaginosis (females only).
Contact us to schedule your free appointment.
