What to Know About STDs
Think you have an STD? Or maybe you think there is no way you could get one. But it’s important to remember that if you or your partner have had other sexual partners, you are at risk for STDs. Statistics collected by MDH and Centers of Disease Control and Prevention share that 1 in 2 sexually active young people will get an STD by the age of 25.
Most STDs cannot be cured, but they can be treated. Though you may think you don’t have an STD, get tested today to be sure.
STD – Sexually Transmitted Disease
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are passed through sexual contact by oral, vaginal, or anal sex. It’s rarer, but there is also a chance for an STD to transmit through skin-to-skin contact. Most STDs begin as an STI and develop into an STD if not treated right away. There are over 20 types of STDs, some of them include:
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea
- HIV/AIDS
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
- Trichomoniasis
- HPV
When Should I Get Tested for an STD?
As soon as you can. We know how nerve-racking this step can be, but it’s vital to your health. Get tested today, especially If you are pregnant! When pregnant with an STD, you face more risks for health complications. Talk to us today to learn more about what’s next.
Signs of an STD
You may have an STD and not know it. Many people experience symptoms and some none at all. Some common signs of a sexually transmitted disease are:
- Sores or warts on the genital area
- Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
- Itching and redness in the genital area
- Blisters or sores in or around the mouth
- Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding
- Acute abdominal pain
- Painful or frequent urination
It’s important to get tested to avoid any unwanted long-term effects. Some of these could include pelvic inflammatory disease, risk of miscarriage, and infertility. STD testing is vital to prevent the risk of long-term STD consequences.