STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are typically passed through sexual activity and bodily fluids like blood or semen.
Most STIs require treatment and do not go away on their own. Regular STI testing is essential if you’re sexually active. And if you’re pregnant, untreated STIs can be passed to your child.
Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of STI testing and learn how WISH Medical Women’s Health helps women on the Palouse.
Do I Have Symptoms of an STI?
STIs don’t always cause symptoms, so you could have one without knowing. If you do have symptoms, you could experience the following:
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Painful or burning urination
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Unusual or odorous discharge
- Lower abdominal pain
If left untreated, STIs can cause major complications, including:
- Pregnancy complications (i.e., miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Infertility
- Heart disease
- Eye inflammation
- Certain cancers
- Arthritis
These complications can be debilitating and lifelong, so if you’re sexually active, it’s critical to get tested regularly and receive any necessary treatment.
How Can I Protect Myself?
No-cost STI testing is available at WISH Medical Women’s Health. You’ll also learn concrete ways to lessen your chances of contracting an STI.
Some steps you can take include limiting sexual intercourse to one partner, abstaining from risky behavior like drug or excessive alcohol use, and having honest conversations with partners about your sexual activity.
Being proactive is an excellent way to manage your sexual health and protect your well-being.
Access Our No-Cost Services
WISH Medical Women’s Health offers female no-cost STI testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, syphilis, bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast, trichomonas, and Hepatitis B & C, as well as urine cultures for UTI symptoms.
Contact us to make a no-cost and confidential appointment. Get started today. Your health is our priority.