The topic of STDs can be frightening, especially if you’re worried you’ve contracted one. You may be wondering whether you can trust the accuracy of an STD test. Though no test is 100% accurate, you can rest assured that your results will be as precise as possible. STD tests are offered in various formats, including a swab, urine sample, or blood test, and they’re lab-quality.
Even if you don’t have symptoms of an STD, it is vital to get regularly tested if you’re sexually active. According to the CDC, 1 in 5 people in the U.S. has a sexually transmitted disease. We’ll review the basics of STDs below.
Does Every STD Have Symptoms?
Bacteria, viruses, or parasites can cause a sexually transmitted disease (STD), typically contracted during sexual contact or by bodily fluids. If you’re pregnant, the STD can also be transmitted to your child during pregnancy and childbirth. Not every STD has symptoms, so regular testing is critical for early detection, treatment, and prevention.
If you do have symptoms, you may notice the following:
- Pain during sex
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Painful urination
- Lower abdominal pain
- Fever
These are just a few symptoms of STDs, so if you feel anything is out of the ordinary, it is vital to seek medical help.
What Happens If I Don’t Seek Treatment?
Regular STD testing is imperative because should you receive a positive result, you must begin treatment immediately. If you don’t receive treatment or seek STD testing, you’re at risk of developing complications such as:
- Pregnancy complications
- Pelvic pain
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Eye inflammation
- Arthritis
- Infertility
- Heart disease
- Certain cancers, such as cervical and rectal cancers
Low-cost and free STD testing is likely available in your community, such as at doctor’s offices, medical clinics, or your local pregnancy center.
Pregnant?
If you’re pregnant, you can come to Bella Women’s Center for limited STD testing as part of our pre-abortion screenings. Our services are confidential and free of charge.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.