According to the CDC, it’s estimated that 1 in 5 people in the US have an STD. It is possible to be a carrier and not display symptoms (asymptomatic).
Getting tested to confirm, understand your treatment options, and protect your partner from infection is essential. Read this article for common symptoms to be aware of and where you can get free testing.
What are Common STD Symptoms?
According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the signs and symptoms of the most common STDs, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, may include:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse in women
- Bleeding between periods in women
- Testicular pain in men
- 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
Earlier stages have fewer symptoms, so they are harder to detect.
Will STDs Go Away on Their Own?
If left untreated, most STDs will not go away on their own and can lead to serious consequences, including infertility, internal organ damage, cancer, or even death. According to the Mayo Clinic, they may also increase the likelihood of acquiring a second STD if left untreated.
Just because you are sexually active does not automatically mean that you have an STD, but it’s still imperative to use protection and get tested for your own sake as well as the safety of your partner.
How Do I Know If I Should Get Tested?
If you’re sexually active, the only way to confirm if you have an STD is to get tested. If you have an untreated STD and undergo an elective abortion, this could increase your risk for complications.
The good news is that once an STD is diagnosed, it is usually very treatable. At Lakes Life Care Center, we offer no-cost STD screening following a positive pregnancy test. We would love to help you learn about different treatment options in a confidential, pressure-free environment.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!