Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also called sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are widespread. Over 20 million new STD cases are estimated to occur in the United States every year. Some of the most common cases are chlamydia, herpes, and gonorrhea.
For some, the embarrassment surrounding STDs discourages them from getting tested. But pushing past these obstacles to prioritize sexual health can be an empowering act of self-care.
What Are The Symptoms Of STDs?
STDs can have many signs and symptoms, and sometimes none at all. As a result, the disease might progress unnoticed until serious problems occur. Depending on the STD, symptoms can arise within days of exposure or years later.
Signs and symptoms that might indicate an STD include:
- Burning or painful urination
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Discharge from the penis
- Pain during sex
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fever
Risks Of Untreated STDs
STDs are often present with no symptoms. This makes it hard to know whether you have an infection. However, if the infections are left untreated, it can lead to serious problems.
To protect your health, consider getting tested regularly. Mobile STD testing in Phoenix AZ offers convenient and accessible options for screening.
Short-Term Effect Of STDs
- Many STDs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can cause discomfort, pain, or itching in the genital area. Others, like genital herpes (HSV-2), may lead to painful blisters and sores. Since genital herpes is a virus, it cannot be treated and can infect any sexual partner in the future.
- STDs can cause abnormal vaginal or penile discharge accompanied by a strong unpleasant odor.
- STDs like gonorrhea can lead to urinary problems such as intense pain while urinating or increased frequency of urination.
- Some STDs, like syphilis, can cause skin rashes that may appear on various parts of the body.
Long-Term Effects Of STDs
- Having had an STD puts a woman at higher risk for a wide range of conditions, including pelvic pain, fertility problems, and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancies (when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus).
- For men, STDs raise the risk for lifelong infections, infertility, and possibly cancer.
Treatment Of STDs
- Three bacterial (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) and one parasitic STD (trichomoniasis) are generally curable with existing single-dose regimens of antibiotics.
- For herpes and HIV, the most effective medications available are antivirals that can modulate the course of the disease, though they cannot cure the disease.
- For hepatitis B, antivirals can help fight the virus and slow damage to the liver.
STD Prevention Through Early Detection
According to the World Health Organization, early detection through regular screening can offer the best opportunity to prevent further transmission.
We all have a shared responsibility to prevent infections from spreading further. If you know your current situation of STD, it will allow you to make informed choices about protecting your health and your partner(s).
Y.A Medical Offers Easy Access To STD Testing
If overcoming the social stigma around STDs is the first step toward normalizing routine testing, having affordable and accessible STD screening options is the next step.With Y.A Medical, you can screen for STDs conveniently and discreetly. You can purchase tests online or visit us. Prioritize your sexual health with routine STD screening.
