Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be acquired via sexual contact or bodily fluids. But they can also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy and childbirth. Your baby could be at risk if you have an STD.
The best way to know if you have an STD is to undergo regular testing. Pregnancy does not prevent you from contracting one.
What Are Common STD Symptoms?
While you may not experience symptoms if you have an STD, you may have common signs that one is present in your body, such as:
- Painful or burning urination
- Fever
- Lower abdominal pain
- Unusual or odorous discharge
- Sore, swollen lymph nodes
- Pain during sexual intercourse
If you do not seek testing and treatment with a positive result, you may develop long-term complications like infertility, certain cancers, or eye inflammation. Untreated STDs have real, life-altering consequences.
How Can I Protect Myself?
As mentioned before, regular testing is essential to protecting your health. Seeking STD testing is nothing to be ashamed of. You owe it to yourself to safeguard your sexual health and receive the care you deserve.
But there are other things you can do to take care of yourself. Stick with one sexual partner, use contraception, and get vaccinated against certain diseases.
You also want to be open and honest with your partner about your sexual history. You not only protect yourself, but your transparency could prevent them from developing an STD.
Where Can I Go for STD Testing?
Limited STD testing and treatment are available at Bella Women’s Center. This service is free of charge and offered to women seeking a pre-abortion screening at our center.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential appointment. We are here for you; you don’t have to experience this process alone.