Sexually transmitted diseases or infections are not something that women want to bring up. We understand, but also know how important STI/STD testing is for your sexual and long-term health. At Life Choices, we offer chlamydia and gonorrhea testing, two STIs/STDs that are widespread across the United States and often do not have any signs or symptoms.
However, just because you may not have developed any symptoms doesn’t mean you do not have an STI/STD. We’ll check and make sure as part of your initial pregnancy appointment.
How STI/STD Testing Works
At Life Choices, STI/STD testing is simple and only requires a urine sample. We’ll be able to tell you at your appointment whether you are testing positive for one of two bacterial infections: chlamydia or gonorrhea. Thankfully, both of these STIs/STDs can be treated with antibiotics, so you can be fully cured and protect your health and the health of your developing pregnancy.
If you test positive for either of these STIs/STDs, we’ll refer you to a healthcare provider for further testing. Generally, women are more at risk for other STIs when they are positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea. We do not want any STIs/STDs missing detection on our watch.
The Risks of Untreated STDs/STIs
You may wonder why untreated STDs or STIs, especially those without symptoms, are such an issue during pregnancy and for your sexual health. It’s because they can cause long-term damage.
Here are the risks of untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea for men and women:
Complications from Gonorrhea
- Infertility in men and women
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women
- An infection that spreads to the joints and other areas of the body
- Increased risk of HIV/AIDs
- Complications for newborn babies, such as blindness, sores on the scalp, and infections
Complications from Chlamydia
- Infertility in men and women
- Pelvic inflammatory (PID) in women
- Infection near the testicles in men
- Prostate gland infection in men
- Infections in newborns, such as pneumonia or a serious eye infection
- Future ectopic pregnancies
- Reactive arthritis (Reiter syndrome)
The Sooner Treatment Starts, The Better
The longer STIs/STDs remain untreated, the greater the likelihood of reproductive damage that impacts future fertility and causes other issues.
Sexually active individuals should receive regular screening to ensure they do not have active STIs/STDs and prevent spreading any further.
Women can receive STI/STD testing during an initial pregnancy confirmation appointment. Contact us today to learn more about STI testing.