5 Reasons Why You Should Get STD Testing
- Posted on: Jun 30 2022
People learn about safe sex practices in a variety of ways. Some learn from a high school health class, parents, older siblings, books, friends, or the internet. Unfortunately, not all those learning sources are always accurate. It is important to have a good education when it comes to safe sex practices to prevent the spread of diseases and infections. If you want to learn more about safe sex make sure to use reliable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Planned Parenthood. Another great resource for learning more about safe sex practices and sexually transmitted diseases is your healthcare provider. It is not embarrassing or shameful to talk to your healthcare provider about sex. They are educated on these topics and can provide you with more resources if needed.
STD vs STI
STD stands for sexually transmitted disease and STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. These terms are often used interchangeably but they are different. Both STDs and STIs are spread primarily through sexual activity but can also be spread through childbirth, breastfeeding, and sharing needles. An STI is an infection caused by a pathogen such as a bacteria, virus, or parasite. An STD starts as an STI but when the pathogens start causing disruptions in normal body functions or do damage to the body’s structures, the STI has developed into an STD. 1
STD and STI Statistics
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
- More than 1 million STIs are acquired daily throughout the world
- More than 30 different bacteria, viruses, and parasites are known to be transmitted through sexual contact
- In 2020, there were approximately 374 million new infections of chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis 2
Why You Should Get Tested
1. For Your Health
Even though some STDs / STIs are asymptomatic they can be harmful to your health and cause permanent damage to your body.
2. For Your Sexual Partner(s) Health
By getting tested, you are being considerate of your sexual partner(s) health and well-being.
3. You Could Be Asymptomatic
Some people experience no symptoms of an STD / STI. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you could still be carrying and spreading an STD / STI.
4. Preventing the Spread
Getting tested helps prevent the spread of STDs / STIs to others.
5. Getting Tested is Easy
Getting STD / STI testing is easier than ever before. Testing is readily available at many healthcare offices, clinics, and labs. Most tests involve just a urine or swab sample.
Key Takeaways
There are a multitude of reasons why you should get tested for STIs / STDs if you are sexually active. Your reason may be one of the those listed above or it could be something more personal. Whatever the reason is, by getting tested you will be prioritizing your health and preventing the spread of STDs / STIs. If you have more questions or concerns about STDs or STIs talk with your healthcare provider.
If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians, contact us here today!
Resources
- STI vs std – what’s the difference? Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). Retrieved June 24, 2022
- World Health Organization. (n.d.). Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). World Health Organization. Retrieved June 24, 2022
Posted in: Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)