If you’re sexually active, the CDC recommends getting tested for STIs at least once a year, even if you’re not displaying symptoms. Because some STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, don’t present with physical symptoms, you could be infected and not know it.
If you’re sexually active or have concerning symptoms that you’d like to get checked out, contact Relate Care Clinic to schedule an appointment for free STI testing.
Or, if you’re on the fence, read on to learn the top three reasons you should take advantage of free STI testing.
1. Protect Your Health
If you’re sexually active, getting tested for STIs protects your health. According to the CDC, “One in five people have an STI,” and many infections don’t cause symptoms.
However, just because an STI doesn’t cause symptoms doesn’t mean it isn’t causing damage. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), STIs can cause consequences that extend beyond the infection:
- Some STIs (like herpes, gonorrhea, and syphilis) can increase the risk of contracting HIV.
- HPV can cause cervical cancer.
- Hepatitis B caused an “estimated 820,000 deaths in 2019, mostly from cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.”
STI testing is the only surefire way to know if you have one, and this is essential for receiving prompt medical treatment.
2. Stop the Spread
If you don’t know you have an STI, you can spread it to your sexual partner(s). The only way to stop the spread is to get tested and seek treatment.
You’ll also want to tell your sexual partner(s) right away so that they can seek treatment as well.
3. Prevent Complications
STIs can cause long-term complications if not treated promptly. According to WHO, STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in women if left untreated.
If you’re pregnant, these complications can pass to the baby and cause complications such as low birth weight, prematurity, deformities, and stillbirth.Where Can I Get Free STI Testing?
If you’re sexually active or pregnant and searching for free STI testing, Relate Care Clinic can help. We offer free, confidential STI testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and Hep C in a caring, non-judgmental environment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
