If you’re considering abortion, it’s important to understand all the factors that can impact your health—not just in the moment, but long term. One of the most overlooked yet critical steps before an abortion is STD testing.
At InnerVisions HealthCare, we want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your next steps. Here’s why STD testing matters before getting an abortion.
Why STD Testing Is So Important
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) often don’t show symptoms. You might feel completely fine and still have an infection like chlamydia or gonorrhea. These common bacterial infections can be easily treated, but only if you know you have them.
If left untreated, STDs can lead to serious health complications—especially during pregnancy or before an abortion procedure. An active infection can increase your risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may result in long-term reproductive issues, including infertility.
What Happens If I Have an STD and Don’t Know It?
Having an untreated STD before an abortion—particularly a surgical abortion—can allow bacteria to travel from the vagina into the uterus during the procedure. This increases your risk of post-abortion complications, including infection, fever, and chronic pelvic pain.
Getting tested ahead of time helps prevent these risks. It’s a simple way to protect your health now and in the future.
How STD Testing Works
STD testing is typically quick, confidential, and offered at no cost at many health clinics. Most of the time, a urine test and a self-collected vaginal swab are used to check for the most common infections.
If results show an infection, most bacterial STDs can be treated with simple antibiotics.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Health
You deserve to make informed decisions with clarity and confidence. If you think you might be pregnant and are considering abortion, contact InnerVisions HealthCare today. We can refer you for STD testing for pregnant patients at no cost to you.
Your health matters. Let’s discuss your next step in a compassionate, private, and pressure-free space.