Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common among both men and women who are sexually active. However, women are more prone to complications from STDs such as infertility. Testing is important for early treatment to relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life.
STD testing Winter Park team of female experts offer confidential, nonjudgemental STD testing for women of all ages.
Introduction to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases are medical conditions or infections that are usually acquired from any kind of sexual activity involving your mouth, anus, vagina, or penis. These are highly contagious that are contracted through bodily fluids during sexual contact.
Some common types of STDs include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Hepatitis
- Genital herpes and warts
- HIV/AIDS
- Syphilis
Common signs and symptoms of STDs
Most often STDs do not present with any symptoms, or if present they are mild and may go unnoticed.
However, some common symptoms include:
- Bumps, sores, or warts on or around your vagina, penis, mouth or anus
- Swelling and redness near your genitals
- Severe itching and dryness near your genitals
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Discharge from your penis
- Painful sex (dyspareunia)
- Painful urination
- Frequent urination
- Vaginal bleeding which is not due to menstruation
- Unexplained rash
Importance of STD testing
STDs usually do not cause symptoms initially, thus they may go unnoticed. Therefore STD testing is important if you :
- Are sexually active
- Have multiple partners
- Are at an increased risk of developing STDs
STD testing is important to diagnose the condition and begin the treatment right away before the symptoms worsen, or you may spread the infection to others.
Early testing can help your healthcare professionals design an appropriate treatment plan for you, to prevent complications.
Tips to prevent STDs
Prevention is better than cure. There are several tips that can help prevent your probability of getting an STD.
These include:
- Avoid having multiple partners
- Practice protective sex using condoms
- Never consume alcohol and drugs during sex
- Avoid using IV (intravenous) street drugs
- Avoid sharing needles with others
- Avoid sex if you think you are at a high risk of contracting STDs
Conclusion
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common conditions. These infections may or may not cause symptoms, and thus may go unnoticed. Therefore it is important to get yourself tested as a part of your wellness plan. This is especially crucial if you are at a high risk of developing STDs.