Think you may have an STI? If you are sexually active, it is possible. Many people are unaware that they have an STI because often they have no symptoms.
Without proper treatment, however, an STI can lead to serious health problems. Get no-cost STI testing today at Clara Women’s Center so you can seek treatment if needed.
What is an STI?
Sexually transmitted infections (STI, also known as STD) are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual activity. They can spread through contact with an infected indiviual’s blood, semen, vaginal or other body fluids. Some common STIs include:
- Chlamydia
- HIV/AIDS
- HPV
- Genital herpes
- Gonorrhea
- Hepatitis B
Your risk of contracting an STI/STD is greater if you:
- Have sex with someone who has had multiple partners
- Have more than one sex partner
- Share needles when injecting intravenous drugs
STDs and Pregnancy
An STI can pose serious health risks to you and a pregnancy. If you are considering an abortion, it is essential that you get tested and treated if needed, as continuing with an abortion when you have an STI can lead to an infection in your uterus. This is called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and it is a serious health condition that requires immediate medical treatment and it can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy in the future.
An STI could affect your pregnancy in the following ways:
- It could develop an ectopic pregnancy (when the embryo implants outside of the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube)
- Cause a miscarriage
- Put you into preterm labor and delivery (before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy)
Common Symptoms of STIs
While STIs often have no symptoms, some of the most common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning with urination
- Pain with sex
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Discharge from the penis
- Sores, blisters, or bumps in the genital, oral, or rectal areas
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Lower abdominal pain
Get Tested Today
If you suspect that you may have an STI, it is vital that you get tested right away, safeguarding your health is essential. Many STIs have serious consequences if left untreated.
Our team of professionals are here to offer safe, confidential, no-cost testing and treatment. Schedule a no-cost appointment.
