Sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STDs and STIs) impact millions of people every year. Many people don’t even know they have one and continue to spread infections due to misinformation about STDs and the stigma around them such as being judged or discriminated against if you do have one. This is why this STD awareness month, we want to focus on removing the fear around testing and encourage singles and couples to get tested regularly.
STDs are often silent and sneaky when it comes to symptoms. Some might not show signs or symptoms until weeks, months or even years later. AFC Urgent Care Saugus wants to help educate everyone about STDs and the importance of testing to reduce your chances of contracting one.
The Growing Concern Of STDs
The rise of STDs has been growing since the rise of “hookup culture”, dating apps and other outlets that promote sexual behavior. Here’s a recap of the numbers of STDs in the last decade:
-
CDC estimates that youth ages 15-24 make up just over one quarter of the sexually active population, but account for half of the 26 million new sexually transmitted infections that occur in the United States each year.
-
During 2014-2018 Syphilis (all stages) cases increased by 81%
-
Gonorrhea cases increased by 67%
-
Chlamydia cases remained at record highs
-
Congenital syphilis cases more than doubled
-
Condoms cannot completely protect you and your partner from some STDs, like herpes, syphilis, or human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes genital warts and cervical cancer.
-
It is important to get tested because although many STDs are curable and all are treatable, some do not show symptoms.
-
In 2020, it was reported that 2100 newborns had syphilis
-
Seniors and the elderly make up a significant number of STD’s, especially since the beginning of the pandemic, and are a growing concern for the spread of STDs
It is also important to note that STDs in the U.S. dropped then resurged during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the CDC, there is preliminary data that shows that during March-April 2020, reported STD cases dramatically decreased compared to the same time in 2019. However, a resurgence in gonorrhea and syphilis cases later in the year suggest overall STDs have increased during 2020 and 2021.
How To Prevent STDS Altogether
If you are sexually active your risk for catching an STD goes up. 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? It would be nice to have some magic pill that would grant immunity from all STDs and STIs “forever”, but that pill does not, as of today, exist. This is why practicing safe sex can help lower your risk of getting an unwanted STD.
AFC Urgent Care Saugus Can Test You For STDs, Confidentially
Don’t put off STD/STI testing. Here at AFC Urgent Care Saugus, we offer confidential STD testing 7 days a week. There is no appointment needed. We have labs in house making it easier to screen for multiple STDs 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.
Our providers are discreet, friendly and knowledgeable about STDs and practicing safe sex. Come get tested to have peace of mind.
