If you’re sexually active, STD testing should be a part of your annual health screenings. The CDC recommends if you have multiple partners, you should be getting tested every 3 to 6 months.
Some STDs do not display any signs or symptoms, making STD testing even more critical to protect your sexual health and prevent any future complications.
Here are some major reasons why you should take advantage of free STD testing.
Prevent Further Spread
STDs can be spread through any form of sex and even through some forms of physically intimate contact. They are very common, and the CDC reports that millions of infections occur each year in the United States.
Since many STDs show either mild or no symptoms, STDs can be spread without knowing it. Taking advantage of free regular STD testing can help you do your part not to spread any STDs to others.
Remember, your partner can spread an STD to you or could have contracted an STD from you. Make sure both of you or any new partners are regularly tested and utilize free STD testing in your area.
Protect Your Long-Term Health
It’s critical to treat an STI/STD as soon as you can to prevent any long-term complications.
For women, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can be very serious, causing scar tissue and abscesses to form in the reproductive tract. This can lead to permanent damage such as infertility and chronic pelvic pain.
Though PID can be caused by a number of bacterial infections, chlamydia and gonorrhea are the most common. These are usually contracted from unprotected sex.
For men, STIs can lead to discomfort and burning sensations during urination or intercourse, and even severe pain in the testicles. Some long-term effects for men include infertility due to testicular damage or scarring of the seminal ducts.
No matter the type of STI/STD or your gender, know that STI/STDs are a serious threat to your health and well-being. Avoid permanent damage to your body by utilizing free STD testing.
STDs and Pregnancy
The CDC recommends all pregnant women be tested for certain STDs during pregnancy to protect their health and the health of their infants.
If you’re pregnant and considering abortion, STD testing before moving forward with any procedures can prevent the further spread of the STDs into the reproductive tract when the normal barrier created by the cervix is disturbed.
It’s Free and Available to You</h2
Free STD testing is available at Alpha Omega Center to help you protect yourself and others. There are no insurance or out-of-pocket costs, and you can schedule at a time that’s convenient for you.
How to Schedule Your STD Testing Appointment
To schedule free STD testing at Alpha Omega Center, book an appointment online today! If you prefer to call or text us, we have our phone numbers for both of our locations listed at the bottom of this page.
