Most STDs require treatment. It is essential to be tested and treated for STDs. Since STDs can be present in the body with no symptoms, some people might be tempted to think that they have gone away, but it is rare for them not to require treatment.

What Are STDs? 

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are contagious, disease-causing infections. They are transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner, from mother to baby during pregnancy or birth, and through contact with contaminated items like needle sharing. 

Birth control does not offer protection from STDs, and condoms are not 100% effective at preventing transmission.

STDs do not always have symptoms, so having one for a long time is possible without knowing about it. Even when STDs don’t have symptoms, they can still be passed easily to a partner and cause long-term adverse health effects.

Risks of STDs

Untreated STDs can cause severe complications to your health. Complications of STDs can include:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Eye inflammation
  • Arthritis
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease
  • Infertility
  • Heart disease
  • Certain cancers

How Do I Know if I Need to be Tested for STDs?

If you are or have been sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most critical steps to protect your and your partner’s health. 

The CDC recommends testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea for sexually active women once a year and more frequently when she has multiple partners or is having sex with a new partner.

It is also recommended that everyone over 13 be tested for HIV at least once in their life and yearly if they take part in behaviors that increase their risk of contracting it, like sharing needles. 

Get Tested

Colorado Springs Pregnancy Center offers testing and treatment for the most common STDs, chlamydia and gonorrhea, and screening for HIV, all at no cost to you. This service is available for men and women. Contact us to take advantage of this service.

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