Could I have a Sexually Transmitted Disease?
Any time a person engages in sexual activity with a partner, there is a chance of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or infection (STD or STI). Some of the most common STDs are HVP, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, among others. Condoms may help reduct the risk of contracting an STD but they do not eliminate the risk entirely. Many STDs show no signs or symptoms; this is why it’s important to be tested regularly.
STDs and Your Body
Many STDs are curable if they are caught early and have no long-term effects. But if left untreated, many STDs can cause damage, which is sometimes permanent. This is why testing and early detection is important. Even if you had sex but have no signs or symptoms, you could still have an STD, and you could still transmit it to your partner(s).
How Do I Prevent an STD?
If you are engaging in sex or sex-like activity, you are at risk for a sexually transmitted disease or infection. Condoms do not completely protect against STDs. Abstinence is the only way to ensure you don’t contract an STD. This means not engaging in vaginal, oral, or anal sex.
Anyone, no matter your age, who has engaged in sexual activity with a partner should be tested for an STD.
What If I Test Positive for an STD?
Some STDs are curable with antibiotics or other treatment methods. Talk to your doctor and begin a treatment plan. You should not engage in sexual activity because the infection is contagious. There is help, hope, and healing for you! Set up an appointment with us today to talk with a peer counselor confidentially, without shame or judgement.
What If My Partner Has an STD? Can Someone Lie About Having an STD?
If you have engaged in sexual activity with someone who is infected with an STD, you should seek testing immediately and stop all sexual contact.
People can and do lie about their STD status or their sexual history. You are at risk anytime you engage in sex with a partner.
In the United States, there are 110 million men and women infected with STDs. We are here to offer help and hope. We can refer you to STD testing and give you guidance and support no matter your test result. Getting tested is easy and harmless. Contact us today for confidential help and support.