Sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STD’s and STI’s) impact millions of people every year. Many people don’t even know they have one and continue to spread infections due to misinformation about STD’s/STI’s and the stigma around them such as being judged or discriminated against if you do have one AFC Urgent Care Saugus wants to help educate everyone about STD’s and the importance of testing to reduce your chances of contracting one.
STD’s and STI’s Are On The Rise
STD’s are diseases that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. The most common include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and HIV. Many of these STD’s do not show symptoms for a long time. You can get an STD by having vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has an STD.
The most recent stats from the CDC states that the following people are most affected by STIs:
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Adolescents and people aged 15 - 24
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Gay, Bisexual, and other men who have sex with men
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Pregnant people
As you will see below, since 2016, Chlamydia has been the only STI that has dropped. The other three STIs have increased over the years.
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Chlamydia - 1.6 million cases; down 1.2% from 2016
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Gonorrhea - 677,769 cases; up 45% from 2016
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Syphilis - 133,945 cases; up 53% from 2016
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Congenital Syphilis - 2,148 cases; up 235% from 2016
Preventing STD’s and STI’s Altogether
If you are sexually active, your risk for catching an STD increases. If you have more than one partner, the risk is even higher. Oral sex and bodily fluids making their way into open cuts and skin can increase your chances as well.
But is there a way to avoid them altogether? Here are some tips in keeping those unwanted STD’s/STI’s at bay:
Use 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.
Abstinence - The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal or oral).
Vaccination - 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 STD’s.
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.
AFC Urgent Care Saugus Is Here For You. Come Get Tested For STD’s And STI’s
Here at AFC Urgent Care Saugus, we offer confidential STD testing 7 days a week. There is no appointment needed. But you can make one online if you prefer a more discreet way to check in.
We have labs in house making it easier to screen for multiple STD’s/STI’s and getting your results faster than most other clinics. We also have extended hours on the weekdays from 8a to 8p and weekend hours from 8a to 5p making it convenient for your schedule.
Lastly, we offer a bill pay option on our website, so you can discreetly check out when your appointment is over.
