3 Reasons to Take Advantage of Free STI Testing
Getting tested for a sexually transmitted disease or infection is a crucial step to take to protect your long-term health. The CDC estimates that 1 in 5 people have an infection, although many are asymptomatic so they may not be aware of it.
If you’re considering getting tested, read below to learn how this can benefit you and any current or future partner.
You Could Be Asymptomatic
If you do have an STI, then it’s best to get tested as soon as possible because the longer it goes undetected, the greater risk it has for causing health complications down the road.
STI symptoms could include:
- Abdominal pain
- Unusual discharge from the vagina
- Sores or warts on the genital area
- Painful or frequent urination
- Itching and redness in the genital area
- Blisters or sores in or around the mouth
- Abnormal vaginal odor
- Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding
In one study, asymptomatic patients were screened for gonorrhea and chlamydia and the results showed that 45% and 77% of all cases of gonorrhea and chlamydial infection, respectively, were never symptomatic. Also, 86% and 95% of untreated cases of gonorrhea and chlamydial infection, respectively, were untreated because they were never symptomatic.
Whether or not you are experiencing any symptoms, it is still important to make STI testing a routine part of your health screening if you’re sexually active.
STIs Can Impact Pregnancy
If you are currently pregnant or are interested in becoming pregnant in the future, having an STI can pose significant risks to the fetus, because many STIs can be transferred to the fetus during birth.
Having an STI while pregnant can also lead to complications, depending on the type of infection.
Protect and Respect Your Partner(s)
If you are sexually active and you (or your partner) have not been tested, it is a good idea to go ahead and get screened, regardless of whether you’re showing signs of STIs or not.
Because a large portion of STIs are asymptomatic, it’s important to protect yourself and your partner’s sexual health and eliminate the possibility of an infection
Next Steps
Take control of your health today and take advantage of our no-cost STI testing at Colorado Springs Pregnancy Center. We offer a judgment-free place where you can discuss your results and learn about treatment options if necessary. Contact us today!
Medical Screening Before An Abortion
A positive result on a pregnancy test isn’t enough. Get the information you need before scheduling an abortion. We can provide this screening for you at no cost.
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken an at-home pregnancy test, be confident you got the correct result with our free pregnancy testing service. You’ll have your test result during your appointment that day.
Ultrasounds
You need to know how far along you are in your pregnancy, if your pregnancy is viable (growing), and its location. Critical information you can only get with an ultrasound.
Medical Screening Before An Abortion
A positive result on a pregnancy test isn’t enough. Get the information you need before scheduling an abortion. We can provide this screening for you at no cost.
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken an at-home pregnancy test, be confident you got the correct result with our free pregnancy testing service. You’ll have your test result during your appointment that day.
Ultrasounds
You need to know how far along you are in your pregnancy, if your pregnancy is viable (growing), and its location. Critical information you can only get with an ultrasound.
