It’s not always easy to talk about medical issues, but there are times when it’s critical that you do. Sexually transmitted diseases can be a grave health issue, and they actively spread regularly. Though discussing possible infection or symptoms from one of these diseases may be awkward or embarrassing, it could save you or a partner’s life. It is essential to know how to protect yourself from these sexually transmitted diseases and be conscious of their possible risks.
What Is An STD?
A sexually transmitted disease or STD is a harmful infection transferred to a patient through contact with another. The parasites, viruses, or bacteria that cause the infection transfer by blood, semen, or other bodily fluids from patient to patient. Though this is usually through sexual contact, it spread also occurs through sharing needles, blood transfusion, or even childbirth. If a patient has an STD, they will likely spread it to any partner if the proper protection is not used and, in some cases, even with protection. These infections cause a variety of unwanted symptoms and can even become fatal.
Ways to avoid becoming infected with an STD include:
- Using a condom
- Getting Tested First
- Get vaccinated
- Staying with one partner
- Communication between partners
- Abstain from sex
Signs
Patients may be infected with an STD without having any symptoms. This situation is even more dangerous as patients can spread the infection to other patients without knowing. Therefore it is essential to get tested if you even think you may have come in contact with a sexually transmitted disease. It is essential to be aware of the different kinds of STDs and to know their symptoms. The list of sexually transmitted infections includes Hepatitis, Chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, genital herpes, and HPV.
The signs of an infection by these diseases can vary. However, it is necessary to see a health professional if they are recognized. STD Symptoms include:
- Painful urination
- Pain during sex
- Fever
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Discharge from penis
- Vaginal discharge
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Bumps or sores on the genitals, rectal area, or mouth
- Sore lymph nodes
- Rash on hands, feet, or body
Testing
Some STD infections can be tested at home, or testing can be requested from a healthcare provider. Testing requires an oral, urine, or genital swab to gain a sample that will help confirm positive infection. Even if there are no symptoms, some patients may want to get tested if they believe they have come in contact with an STD or someone who may be carrying one. If an at-home test is positive, reach out to a professional on the subsequent steps to be taken for treatment. While at-home self-testing is convenient and becoming more common, it is not always accurate. It is recommended to have it performed in person at a clinic by a professional to get a more definitive test.
Get testing at Centennial Medical Center
Contact Centennial Medical Center for for information on getting tested. We can provide information on at-home screening tips or whether a patient should request an appointment to be tested. If you believe you or a loved one needs to be tested for a possible sexually transmitted infection, call an urgent care facility for assistance today.