Maybe you have unpleasant symptoms that you think could be from an STD, or perhaps you have no symptoms at all. Either way, you can benefit from STD testing if you are sexually active.
STDs rarely go away on their own, so if you have unwanted symptoms, there’s no reason to suffer in silence. There are usually treatments to relieve discomfort and treat the STD or help improve health outcomes.
If you’re asymptomatic, you could be spreading an STD without knowing it. Testing can help bring awareness and stop the spread.
Continue reading to learn more about STD symptoms, STD treatments, and STDs in pregnancy.
Symptoms of STDs
STDs are contracted through exposure to blood, semen, vaginal, or other bodily fluids.
Symptoms of STDs include but are not limited to:
- Unusual or foul-smelling discharge from the penis/vagina
- Sores or bumps on the genitals, oral area, or rectal area
- Pain or burning with urination
- Pain with sex
- Lower abdominal pain
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Sore or swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- Rash on trunk, hands, or feet
- Fever
Along with the unpleasant symptoms associated with STDs, when left untreated, STDs can lead to serious health complications like infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Treatment
Not all STDs can be cured, but most can at least be managed with medication to avoid more serious complications.
Antibiotics can provide a cure for bacterial STDs, while viral STD symptoms can only be managed with the use of antivirals.
If you’re suffering from an STD, seeking treatment can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
STDs in Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant, it is critical to be tested and seek any necessary treatment for STDs as soon as possible.
STD treatment can drastically change pregnancy outcomes and prevent further complications for the fetus.
Some STDs can be passed through the placenta during pregnancy, while others are only passed during delivery. For this reason, it is vital to receive testing and seek advice from a doctor about the best way to protect your pregnancy.
Find Out More Today
New Life Clinic offers free STD testing and a variety of other pregnancy-related services.
If you test positive for an STD, we can refer you to treatment resources. If you’re pregnant, we offer free ultrasound scans so you can learn more about your pregnancy and your options.
For the sake of your health, contact us today for your confidential appointment.