Back in the 1980s, a nationwide education and awareness effort was launched in the hopes of reducing the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States. Unfortunately, those efforts haven’t moved the needle much, and the rates of STIs are higher than ever. In 2022, there were more than 2.5 million cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
Since STIs are still circulating at alarming rates in the US, the women’s health experts here at Capital Women’s Care want to do our part to underscore the importance of regular STI testing. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at a few compelling reasons why you should get tested for STIs and what sort of screening schedule we recommend.
There are several reasons we want you to come see us for STI testing, including:
You may have noticed that we’re using the term STI instead of STD (sexually transmitted disease). This shift in terminology is because when you’re infected, it doesn't necessarily mean you’ll develop disease. In other words, you can have the infection, but no symptoms.
Because so many STIs don’t have symptoms, people don’t realize they have the infection and they can pass it along to sexual partners and unborn babies. If you get tested and find out you have an STI, you can take steps to protect yourself and others.
If you have an STI, you’re more vulnerable to further infections, such as HIV. Through testing, we can identify and treat existing infections to lower your risks.
If you have an STI that goes untreated, you run the risk of developing a larger problem, namely pelvic inflammatory disease. And one of the biggest complications of pelvic inflammatory disease is infertility.
Now let’s get into some good rules of thumb for STI testing. The recommendations put forth by the CDC, suggest the following:
Even if you don’t have intercourse, you can still be infected. So, if you have oral or anal sex, please talk to us about STI testing.
In fact, we want you to be honest and open with us about your sexual activity, and we listen without judgment. Our top priority is your health, and we need to have a complete picture so we can protect you against STIs.
If you have questions or you’d like to make an appointment for quick and easy STI testing, please contact one of our three conveniently located offices in Frederick and Mount Airy, Maryland, today.
