Did you recently find out you’re pregnant? Did you know that STI testing is an essential part of protecting your health right now?
What Are STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are contagious infections that can cause symptoms and disease in the body.
STIs are spread through sexual contact, which includes oral and anal sex. They can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or delivery as well as through sharing needles during drug use.
STIs can consist of different types of infections, including:
- Bacterial: Bacterial STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be cured with antibiotics.
- Viral: Viral STIs can’t be cured but can often be managed. Viral STIs include human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes.
- Parasitic: The most common parasitic STI is trichomoniasis, and it can be cured with antibiotics.
What Are the Symptoms of an STI?
Many of the most common STIs don’t present with symptoms, which means it’s possible that you or your partner have an STI and don’t know it.
When STIs are asymptomatic, they can persist undiagnosed for months or even years. However, just because an STI isn’t presenting with symptoms doesn’t mean it’s not causing damage to your body.
Signs and symptoms of the most common STIs might include:
- Painful urination
- Abdominal pain
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between periods
What If I’m Pregnant and Have an STI?
If you’re pregnant, it’s critical to receive STI testing promptly. This is because some STIs can pass from mother to child during pregnancy or birth and cause birth defects or even death.
If you receive a positive pregnancy test result and ultrasound results at Ramona Women’s Clinic, you will be offered free STI testing and treatment for the most common STIs (chlamydia and gonorrhea).
We care about your health and well-being. If you’re pregnant, don’t delay.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential STI testing appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.
