Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a fact of life for ordinary individuals. They can affect anyone and hence you cannot conclude that you are not infected. Many STIs are asymptomatic, and so it is possible to have one and not know it; thus, regular STI screening is crucial. On that note, considering Upper West Side STD testing is a bright idea. Some of the reasons why it is vital to get screened for STIs are because;
- Even Virgins Can Have STDs
Your partner having never had vaginal intercourse does not mean they cannot have an STI. Skin-to-skin contact, such as the spread of many STIs
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
- Syphilis
Other sexually transmissible scenarios, such as oral herpes, may be passed by casual affection between family members. Oral herpes is usually caused by HSV-1, while HSV-2 generally causes genital herpes.
- Monogamy is Not a Guarantee
Most people with STIs do not know they are infected; thus, this can lead to relationship problems when symptoms emerge later. It is also possible to discover an STI like chlamydia only after a couple starts having fertility complications. Screening before a relationship starts can allow everyone involved to know where they stand and help avoid false accusations of cheating.
- You Cannot Be Treated Until You Have undergone a Diagnosis
No one wants to be diagnosed with an STI. It is much better, though, to know whether or not you have an STI. Once you know, you can seek treatment. Remember that certain STIs like HIV are much easier to treat when realized early. There is even proof that with early HIV treatment, it may be possible to achieve a functional cure.
- Not All STIs Cause Symptoms
Many people do not get tested because they do not have symptoms. STIs do not always cause symptoms, however. Up to 70% of females with chlamydia, for instance, do not have symptoms. Being symptom-free is not a guarantee that you do not have an STI. You can still pass an STI on to others even when you don’t have symptoms. One of the best ways to avoid passing an STI on to your partner is to get an STI test and receive treatment if you need it.
- Untreated STIs Can Cause Permanent Problems
An untreated STI can cause long-term health problems even with no initial symptoms. In females, for example, gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This disease can leave scars in the fallopian tubes, which can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
It is important to remember that testing is not always 100% accurate. Still, it is better than relying on guesswork or assumptions. To lower your risk for STD complications, the office of Karen F. Brodman, MD, offers on-site STD testing. The board-certified gynecologist provides comprehensive testing for STDs. He also customizes treatment plans to clear the infection and provide resources that reduce your risk for additional conditions. Schedule an STD testing appointment online or call the office on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York.
