When Should I Seek Out an STD Test?
Contracting a sexually transmitted disease is never a fun thing. Along with the private nature of the illness, it can feel awkward seeking help or treatment. Even though you may feel that way, know that one in five American adults will experience an STD at some point every year.
STDs are incredibly common and people recover from them all the time. In order to stay healthy and avoid developing a more serious symptom, it is imperative that you get tested regularly, especially when changing partners. If you need a test, we can help you right at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.
How Contagious Are STDs?
STDs can be very contagious. You contract STDs through unprotected sexual contact, so it can be quite common to develop one when you change partners or enter into a new relationship. Some STDs produce no symptoms, so it can be hard to know if you have one.
Infections are often mild, but if you don’t get tested and treated appropriately, they can become serious and cause long term issues. Did you know that we can test for a variety of common STDs right in our clinic?
Common STD Tests We Offer
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
Does an STD Need Special Treatment?
All STDs should be evaluated by a doctor or medical professional because an untreated infection can cause larger problems for you down the road. Fertility issues, pregnancy complications and pelvic inflammatory disease are some of the things you are at risk of if you don’t get treated. Those are some pretty life-altering complications compared to simply getting a quick STD test.
Don’t ignore any symptoms in the hopes that they just go away. It is OK to ask for help and seek a professional opinion! We promise to treat you with professionalism and discretion to help diagnose you and help you on your way to wellness.
Preventing an STD
- Get tested before entering into a new relationship.
- Use a condom during sexual contact.
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV.
- Address any symptoms quickly.
- Be truthful with your partner about diagnoses.
Are you concerned that you contracted an STD? Come get tested at AFC Urgent Care Hixson today.