If you have contracted a sexually transmitted disease (STD) but are not sexually active, there are a few reasons why this could be the case.
“STD” refers to the constellation of diseases that result from a sexually transmitted infection (STI). For example, cervical cancer is an STD from the STI of HPV.
Though it is possible to contract an STI even if you are not sexually active, most cases occur in people who have had unprotected sexual contact with someone with an STI.
If you think that you have an STI, it is recommended that you go to your nearest urgent care clinic for STD testing and treatment.
How You Can Get STDs Without Sexual Contact
STIs can be spread through oral, anal, and vaginal sex or skin-to-skin contact. If you have not been sexually active but have still contracted an STD, there are some possible causes that you should consider.
- For those who haven’t been sexually active, causes of infection could include sharing needles for drug use, tattoos, piercings, and body modifications.
- Blood transfusions can also spread certain infections.
Engaging in risky behaviors significantly heightens the chances of transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Examples of high-risk activities encompass vaginal and anal intercourse. Furthermore, contracting one STI amplifies the likelihood of acquiring additional STIs.
It is important to note that not all STDs are contagious, and some infections require specific conditions for transmission.
Types of STDs
STDs are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. These diseases have various symptoms, can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and can have serious long-term health consequences if left untreated.
Here are some of the most common STDs.
- Chlamydia: Chlamydia is a bacterial infection caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States and other parts of the world.
- Genital herpes: Genital herpes is an STI caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). It is spread through direct skin contact during sexual contact.
- Genital warts: Genital warts are STDs caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Cervical cancer: Cervical cancer is also an STD caused by certain types of HPV.
- Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea is an STI caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
- Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is a severe and potentially life-threatening virus that affects the liver. It is spread through contact with an infected person’s blood or other body fluids, such as through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to baby at birth.
- Syphilis: Syphilis is a highly contagious STD caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum and is commonly spread through direct contact with the infected person’s skin or mucous membranes.
- Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is caused by the single-celled protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It is one of the most common STIs in the United States and affects both men and women.
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): HIV is a virus that attacks the human immune system, making it unable to fight off other infections and diseases. It is spread through certain body fluids, including blood, semen, breast milk, and vaginal secretions. HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
If left untreated, asymptomatic STIs can lead to:
- Increased risk of infertility
- Certain types of cancer
- Transmission to sexual partners
- Harm to an unborn baby if you’re pregnant
- Increased susceptibility to HIV infections
How to Prevent STDs
To reduce the risk of getting an STI, it is essential to practice safe sex and communicate openly about STI status with any potential partners. Additionally, individuals should stay current on their STD testing and get tested regularly if at risk.
Head to an American Family Care Location for STD Testing
One of the most critical points of concern, especially when it comes to STIs, is privacy. AFC is the ideal urgent care center for testing and treatment of STIs. Most of our centers provide convenient, walk-in medical services, so you don’t have to wait days or weeks for a doctor’s appointment. In addition to accepting most forms of insurance, self-pay options are available.
The staff at urgent care facilities are experienced in treating STIs and can provide immediate results with minimal wait times. Additionally, these clinics offer the most up-to-date testing methods and medical treatments that are effective in helping to manage STI symptoms and the risk of transmission.
With a wide range of services and specialized professionals understanding your needs and concerns, AFC is the best choice for safe and accurate testing for STIs. The privacy of your health information is protected, so you can rest assured that your test results will remain confidential.
If you think you have a sexually transmitted disease, head over to your AFC clinic to test for an STD.*
* Please note that not all AFC clinics provide testing services for STIs. It is recommended that you contact your nearest clinic for more information.
