Sexually transmitted diseases, more commonly reffered to as “STDs”, and STI’s- Sexually transmitted infections, are a serious health matter than shouldn’t be ignored. STDs and STI’s are highly transmissible and if left undetected or untreated could possibly lead to long term health complications.
Getting tested for an STD or STI can be embarrassing. We get it. There is usually a stigma around it suggesting that if you have an STD, you’re alienated right away and that all these bad things are going to happen to you because of it. This is not the case, and they are more common than you’d imagine. Getting tested shouldn’t be scary. It’s actually encouraged so that you know your status and can receive treatment right away…and also to avoid spreading it to others.
“Where can I get tested then?” Luckily for you, AFC Urgent Care Torrington offers confidential STD testing 7 days a week. We’re also very knowledgeable about STD’s and STI’s. Here’s what you should know.
STD and STI Facts And Statistics To Know
Staying informed about STD’s, what they are and how to prevent them is important so that when isolation is over we can resume responsible sexual activity infection and disease free.
Here are some facts from the CDC that you should keep in mind:
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CDC estimates that youth ages 15-24 make up just over one quarter of the sexually active population, but account for half of the 20 million new sexually transmitted infections that occur in the United States each year.
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During 2014-2018 Syphilis (all stages) cases increased by 81%
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Gonorrhea cases increased by 67%
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Chlamydia cases remained at record highs
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Congenital syphilis cases more than doubled
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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.
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It is important to get tested because although many STDs are curable and all are treatable, some do not show symptoms.
Am I At Risk For an STD or STI?
The important thing to take away from the facts and statistics out there on STDs is that if you’re sexually active, you should be getting tested at least once a year. If you’re sexually active with more than one partner, then it is highly suggested to get tested periodically throughout the year and to practice safe sex with a condom.
STD’s can also be transmitted in other ways. It’s not just during unprotected sex where you can get one, but through oral sex, anal sex and through cuts or breaks in skin. Lastly, if you’re not having as much sex as others might be, or condom sex, it is still suggested to get routine testing as symptoms of STDs are often undetectable at first.
Get Tested For STD’s and STI’s At AFC Urgent Care Torrington
Confidential STD testing at AFC Urgent Care Torrington is far simpler than trying to get an appointment with your primary care or finding a testing clinic with reasonable hours
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There is no appointment needed when visiting our center, although you can now make one. We offer weekday hours from 8am-8pm and weekend hours from 8am-5pm making it easy for you to walk-in after work or school to get tested.
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Our locations have in-house labs, so you’re able to get your results faster and are often less expensive than at other clinics.
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Our providers can write prescriptions, so if any medications are needed, you can pick them up where you choose discreetly and conveniently.
AFC Urgent Care Torrington for your STD testing needs is the way to go!
