3 Reasons to Take Advantage of Free STI Testing
STIs are infections passed from person to person during sexual activity and may or may not exhibit symptoms. If you are sexually active it is important to have STI testing to protect your overall health and ensure you receive the medical treatment you may need. Luckily, many clinics provide free or low-cost STI testing that is confidential and accessible.
According to the CDC, if you are sexually active, getting tested for STIs is one of the best things you can do to identify unsafe sexual practices and receive adequate treatment. But what are some of the other reasons to get tested?
1. Ensure That You Aren’t Spreading STIs to Others
STIs are most often spread through skin-to-skin contact and bodily fluids. This means that their spread can be common and easily spread if sexually active. Regular testing for STIs will allow you to obtain the treatment you need if you receive a positive result, and abstain from sexual activity during your course of treatment to ensure the protection of your health and the health of others.
2. Prevent Long-Term Complications
If left untreated, STIs can cause long term health problems particularly in women and infants.. This may include pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, tubal or ectopic pregnancy, cervical cancer, and perinatal or congenital infections in infants born to infected mothers.
3. Understand the Factors That Put You at Risk
There are various groups of people who are at greater risk of developing STIs and should get tested frequently if sexually active
These groups include:
- Women younger than 25
- Pregnant women
- Anyone who engages in sexual practices that could place them at risk for infection
If you fall into any of these groups, it is recommended that you receive testing for your health and the health of others.
Where Can I Get Tested?
At Liberty Women’s Clinic we offer free STI testing by appointment for certain common STI’s.
Take advantage of this service. We are here for you! Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential nurse consultation.
Contact UsThis information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional counseling and/or medical advice.