STI and STD Awareness Month: How To Prevent STD’s and Where To Get Tested

March 31, 2023

 A Couple in bed concerned about how to prevent STDs and STIs and where to get tested for them

Are you worried about contracting an STD or an STI? Sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) and sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) are a serious matter, especially when untreated. Recently, there has been a rise in cases of syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections/diseases that warrants a PSA for anyone having sex out there.

***Stop having unprotected sex and learn more about ways to prevent getting an STD or STI!

Yes, the thought of getting tested for an STD or an STI can be a little overwhelming or a little embarrassing, but there's nothing embarrassing about staying as healthy as possible and knowing your status. AFC Urgent Care Rocky Hill has created a guide to inform you about STD’s and STI’s, confidential STD and STI testing and ways to prevent contracting one.

What Are STD’s And STI’s?

‘SexuallyTansmitted Diseases’ (STD’s), also known as ‘Sexually Transmitted Infections’ (STI’s) are very common. Even though an STI is a sexually transmitted “infection” and an STD is a sexually transmitted “disease,” most people refer to STD’s as both STI’s and STD’s. An STD or an STI can be passed from one person to another through vaginal, oral, and anal sex.

STD’s and STIs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms. It is possible to have an infection and not know it. For this reason, it is important to get tested for STD’s and STI’s if you are having sex or beginning a new relationship. If you receive a positive STD or STI diagnosis, know that all are treatable with medicine and some are curable entirely.

What Kind of STD’s And STI’s Are People Contracting These Days? ? 

The most prevalent strains of STD’s we are seeing these days are:

Bacterial Vaginosis: (BV) is a common, treatable, vaginal condition which can increase your chance of getting an STD.

Chlamydia: Chlamydia is a common, but treatable, STD. If left untreated, chlamydia can make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant.

Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea is a common STD that can be treated with the right medication. If left untreated, gonorrhea can cause very serious health problems.

Syphilis: Syphilis can have very serious problems when left untreated. It is simple to cure with the right treatment.

Herpes: Genital herpes is a common STD, but most people with the infection do not know they have it. While there is no cure, there are medicines available that can prevent or shorten outbreaks. These medicines also can make it less likely to pass the infection on.

STD and STI Prevention Tips

Abstinence - The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal or oral).

Vaccinations - Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV.  

Reduce Number of Sex Partners - Reducing your number of sex partners can decrease your risk for STDs. 

Mutual Monogamy - Mutual monogamy means that you agree to be sexually active with only one person, who has agreed to be sexually active only with you.

The use of Condoms - Correct and consistent use of the male latex condom is highly effective in reducing STD transmission. If you have latex allergies, synthetic non-latex condoms can be used. 

AFC Urgent Care Rocky Hill Provides Confidential STI and STD Tests

It’s all fun and pleasure until someone gets an STD or an STI. It might seem embarrassing to go to a clinic to get tested, but it’s better to get tested than cause long term damage to your body or increase the stats reported on The CDC about STD’s. Remember, most STD’s or STI’s are treatable and manageable if you know your status. AFC Urgent Care Rocky Hill is here for you. 

We’re open 7 days a week and no appointments are needed, walk in and see us (we do welcome appointments as well). We can provide confidential tests and prescribe treatment. We can also clear any confusion or concerns you may have about STD’s or STI’s. 

New feature! Now you can pay online through our website.

Recent Blogs

About Our Services:

Call (860) 372-4990 for more information about our Rocky Hill urgent care services.