The discussion of sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing for sexually active adults seems to have fallen by the wayside with the current clamor for Covid-19 testing. However, STD testing is essential for sexually active adults. It’s just as important now as it’s ever been.
Why Testing Matters
Many patients never experience the symptoms associated with an STD, also known as a sexually trasmitted infection (STI). The impact an STD can have on a patients’ overall health demands that testing be done, especially since symptoms can lay dormant for up to 10 years or more. There is no concrete way to know if you or your partner have an STD without proper testing. Health complications can develop if STDs are left untreated.
Long-Term Health Concerns
If left undetected, an STD can progress to result in cervical cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, genital warts, blindness, infertility, and cancer of the reproductive organs. Sexually active adults of all ages are susceptible to exposure of an STD. Symptoms can include fever, pelvic pain, and ulcerations, to name a few.
Having the Conversation
Discussing the possibility of, or knowledge that, you have been exposed to someone who has been diagnosed with an STD can be a difficult conversation to have with your family doctor or OB/GYN. HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Herpes, Hepatitis B & C are words that can cause shame. They are also all diseases that, if left untreated, are certain to progress causing pain, suffering and potentially death. It’s important to have this conversation so that these diseases can be diagnosed and treatment begun as soon as possible.
Safe Sex is Not a Guarantee
If you believe that you are doing everything you can to have “safe sex,” without periodic testing neither you nor your partner can know for sure. Don’t risk your health. Even in the heat of the moment, take the time to try to be safe. The use of a condom, internal condom or dental dam is not guaranteed to be 100% effective, so there is always a risk of an STD still being transmitted.
If you believe that you have had sexual contact with someone who may have an STD, you need to be tested as soon as possible. Early detection is critical to beginning a successful treatment program. Infections Managed, Inc. is here for you. Call us at 954-776-9992 to schedule your discreet appointment today.