Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that spread through sexual contact. There are many different STIs/STDs, and many of them have little or no symptoms but can have severe consequences.
Young adults between 15 and 24 and those with many sexual partners have an increased risk of STDs. Pregnant women get tested because STDs can affect both them and their unborn children.
Here are some of the most common STIs/STDs:
1. HPV (Human Pappilomavirus)
HPV is the most common STD in the United States. A virus causes it, and it will generally go away in two years. However, if it does not go away, it can lead to genital warts or cancer.
2. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is the most common bacterial STI. Estimates show that around 1.5 million new cases are reported each year, but the number of infections may be higher.
Chlamydia often has no signs or symptoms.
Though, some women may notice painful urination, vaginal discharge, painful vaginal sex, and vaginal bleeding between periods and after sex. Men can experience painful urination, discharge from the penis, and testicular pain.
Chlamydia can be diagnosed with a urine test or a sample collected by a swab. Antibiotics can treat this condition.
3. Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is another common bacterial STI. As with chlamydia, it also spreads through sexual contact.
If left untreated in pregnant women, it can infect infants as they pass through the birth canal. It often affects the infant’s eyes and can lead to blindness.
Both chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to a severe infection in women called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if left untreated. Therefore, testing and treatment is crucial.
4. Syphilis
Syphilis is a severe bacterial infection that is skyrocketing in the United States. If not caught and treated in the early stages, syphilis can cause permanent damage to the heart and other organs.
Syphilis causes a sore to form on the genitals or mouth. The sore will go away on its own, but that doesn’t mean the syphilis is gone. About six months later, it will develop into a rash.
With pregnancy, syphilis can result in miscarriage, premature birth, or even stillbirth. Pregnant women should be tested early in the pregnancy.
Take Care of Your Reproductive Health
Your sexual and reproductive health all play a role in your long-term health and well-being. Take control by attending your annual physicals and well-woman visits and asking about regular STI testing.
If you think you might be pregnant, we can provide no-cost pregnancy testing and an ultrasound, plus comprehensive information on all your options.
Contact us today. We are here for you!