Whether you are celibate, monogamous, or open, you are at risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. Sexually transmitted diseases have a wide range of symptoms but in many cases, these symptoms don’t show up. In such a case the person with asymptomatic STD becomes a carrier that passes the disease to other people. Therefore, it is important to get an STD test Bridgeview.

In this article, we will explore what STD testing entails, which STD tests are most recommended, and the reasons to get tested.  

How Does STD Testing Work? 

STD testing is usually painless and quick. All STDs cannot be diagnosed from a single test. Therefore, depending on your symptoms, your partner’s sexual history, and your sexual history, the doctor will assign you varying tests. STD testing includes urine tests, oral tests, blood tests, genital swabs, physical exams, and scab/sore swabs. It is recommended to visit a medical clinic near me in case you suspect that you have contracted HIV. Most clinics are equipped to do rapid testing for HIV. 

Which STD Tests Are Recommended? 

Sexually active women under the age of 25 are recommended to get tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HPV. Pregnant women are commonly tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV at their first visit because they can lead to miscarriages, premature labor, high infant mortality rate, and infection in the womb. Furthermore, it has harmful effects on the baby and can lead to brain damage, deafness, hepatitis, chronic liver disease, and eye infection.  

Reasons To Undergo STD Testing 

Aside from getting effective treatment, other reasons to get tested for STDs include- 

1. Not All STDs Cause Symptoms- 

Many sexually transmitted diseases do not cause any symptoms. In such a case the STD is left untreated which can be very dangerous. It also puts the person at risk of passing STD on to their sexual partners. Therefore, if you are a sexually active person, you are recommended to get STD testing routinely. Monogamous and married couples are also advised to get tested frequently. 

2. For better mental health- 

There is a lot of stigma and shame associated with sexually transmitted diseases. STDs proliferate in the first place because of improper sexual health education and stigmatization of sexual relationships. In many cases of STDs, people do not seek medical intervention because they feel guilty and ashamed. Untreated STDs can cause extreme mental and physical discomfort. Thereby impacting people’s self-esteem and leading to feelings of loneliness. Seeking urgent care near me helps people get proper care and support from healthcare professionals.  

3. Untreated STDs Cause Permanent Issues- 

Generally, STDs are left untreated because they have no symptoms or the person is not educated on the subject of STDs. When left untreated for long, STDs can cause long-term health problems. In both men and women, untreated gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to infertility. In women, untreated STDs can also cause pelvic inflammatory disease and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. In men, untreated syphilis can lead to degenerative diseases, loss of kidney function, and even blindness. 

4. For Your Sexual Partner’s Health- 

STD testing is necessary for practicing safe sex with your partner. It encourages honest communication between sexual partners, stopping further transmission, and early diagnosis. Additionally, it helps people make informed decisions about their sexual health, lifestyle, and hygiene. 

Conclusion 

Struggling with STDs can be physically and mentally taxing. With regular and rapid STD testing you can ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. UrgiClinic Urgent Care in Bridgeview specializes in treating a broad spectrum of sexually transmitted diseases. Their services include rapid testing, diagnosing, and providing treatment for STDs and other infections.