You may wonder if getting a test for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is important at this point in your life. If you have recently experienced unsafe sex and you are speculating whether you have acquired a disease in the process, then getting tested for STDs is an essential way to protect your sexual health, and your partner’s as well.
A sexually transmitted disease is a contagious illness that is transmitted between humans through sexual intercourse. Anyone who experiences any form of sexual contact is susceptible to this disease. Men and women, young and old alike can possibly acquire this disease. Statistics shows that one out of four Americans from ages 15 to 55 catches at least one STD. Generally, teenagers and young adults catch STDs since they are more sexually active, hence taking more risks. About two-thirds of all types of STDs are transmitted to people under 25 years old and more than 15 million Americans are affected each year.
STDs are transmitted through anal, vaginal and oral sex during which a person comes in contact with infected body fluids like semen, vaginal fluids, or blood and mucous membranes or infected skin, like mouth sores. Sharing syringes or needles for drug use, tattooing, ear piercing, and the like can also transmit an STD.
Interestingly, many STDs do not cause symptoms at all, that’s why a lot of people fail to recognize their infection for quite a while especially those who refuse to get tested.
The three most common STDs are Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and HIV/AIDS. Syphilis is spread by means of direct contact with the sore or the wound. The common symptoms of Syphilis are painless sores, indicating where germs have entered followed by subsequent rashes; sore throat; and hair loss.
Gonorrhea, also called GC, Clap, and Drip, is acquired by direct contact with infected mucous membranes like the mouth, genitals, and anus. This type of STD usually does not show any symptoms but for some infected people who experience symptoms, they suffer from painful urination accompanied by a burning sensation; vaginal discharge for women; and pus discharge for men due to urethra infection.
HIV/AIDS is a pandemic disease which may be spread through direct sexual contact, transfusion of blood, contaminated tools like needles and syringes, and contact with wounds or mucous membranes having contaminated body fluids. Symptoms include weight loss, lack of appetite, recurring fever, malaise, skin cancer, persistent diarrhea, and tuberculosis among others.
Abstinence, which is avoiding sex entirely, is apparently the best way to avoid contracting any STD but since it’s difficult for most people, the next best method is to engage in safer sexual intercourse by disallowing your partner’s vaginal secretions or semen to get inside of your genitals, anus, or mouth. Furthermore, it’s also highly recommended that you use condom, dental dam, or plastic wrap during oral sex, male or female condom during vaginal sex and anal sex, and avoid genital skin-to-skin contact. By equipping yourself with the right knowledge, you can greatly prevent STD transmission.
Due to the huge number of people at risk, STDs have become an urgent concern among health officials in the US. In the City of New York, there are various clinics run in different areas in the five boroughs that provide free STD testing. You can also get tested through various anonymous services online that utilize credible testing methods.
Don’t delay any longer and get checked out, if you have worries about STD infection. It may be completely hard for you to seek help from a doctor or clinic, worrying that other people may find out about it. Having an STD is an embarrassing and emotionally draining experience, but it’s highly indispensable to know the truth and get proper medication before it’s too late.
Online anonymous services can provide you accurate sexual health checks and free treatment prescription, if necessary. If you’re hesitant and embarrassed to undergo physical examination, the tests that will be provided to you can be used in the privacy of your own home. However, if you feel that face to face consultation is important, you can drop by any of the safe, accredited STD-specialist clinics in New York and consult a doctor for an STD test.