Guarding Your Sexual Health
Any person who is having sex runs the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Despite what you might have heard from friends or movies, the use of a condom does not completely prevent the spread of all STIs. Fortunately, many STIs are curable and can be treated with relative ease when you receive medical attention early. However, if you are not aware that you have an STI and leave it untreated, it can cause serious damage to your body.
At Options Pregnancy Clinic, we offer free testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea. If you are sexually active and are concerned about STIs, you can make an appointment to get yourself tested today.
How are STIs spread?
STIs are transferred when an infected person engages in sexual contact with a person who is not infected. Sexual contact includes contact with a partner’s vagina, penis, anus, or mouth. Sexual contact also includes the transfer of bodily fluids, such as semen, saliva, blood, and vaginal fluids.
STI Symptoms
Because many people do not notice STI symptoms or are not aware that the symptoms are an indication of an STI, the diseases often go untreated for long stretches of time. In some cases, people have no STI symptoms at all. However, it is important to know that the absence of symptoms does not mean that the STIs are harmless. To educate yourself and increase your awareness, read the following common STI symptoms so you can know what to look for.
- painful urination
- painful sex
- severe rash or itching on or near the genitalia
- abnormal genital bleeding
- unusual genital discharge
- bumps or sores near the mouth or genitals
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should get yourself tested as soon as possible. We provide testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
The Importance of Getting Tested
While getting an STI is serious, it is manageable if you catch it early. That’s why it is so important to regularly get tested. If you have had unprotected sex recently and would like to receive free testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea, contact us today.