“When you have sex with someone, you are having sex with everyone they have had sex with for the last ten years, and everyone they and their partners have had sex with for the last ten years.”
— C. Everett Koop, M.D., Former U.S. Surgeon General
What are Sexually Transmitted Infections?
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), also referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections that are most commonly spread through sexual contact. STIs are most commonly transmitted through blood, semen, and vaginal fluid.
Symptoms of STDs/STIs
Since many STDs present without any symptoms, anyone who has had unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone outside of a monogamous relationship, should get tested. Some STDs can damage reproductive organs which can lead to infertility and some predispose individuals to certain types of cancer. It is also important to get tested if you are pregnant, regardless of your decision regarding your pregnancy, for your own health and the health of your baby. It is also important that your partner is tested as well. We can help.
The following urine-based tests are available for free at Community Pregnancy Clinics:
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If you are pregnant, you need to be tested for STDs
It is important that you are tested and, if necessary, treated for STDs. If you have a termination procedure and have Chlamydia or Gonorrhea, your risk of contracting Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) increases by 25%. About 50% of the time Chlamydia and Gonorrhea have no symptoms, so even if you feel well, you should still get tested. If you are considering parenting or adoption, there are at least 8 STDs that can dramatically affect your baby’s development when left untreated.
How do I know if I have an STI?
Oftentimes, many people have an STI without exhibiting symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get tested unless you’re in a monogamous relationship.
I’m already showing symptoms. What should I do?
If you’re already having symptoms, contact your primary healthcare provider