STD Information
Concerned About STDs?
Here’s What You Need To Know
If you’ve recently had unprotected sex, you are at risk for contracting an STD. STDs are much more common than you might think, and that’s because a large portion of people who do have them don’t even know it. If you are sexually active have had more than one partner, or have been with someone who has had more than one partner, you should get tested.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is the most commonly reported STD in the US. Very often, those with Chlamydia do not experience any symptoms, which is why it’s important to get tested. If left untreated, Chlamydia can cause permanent reproductive damage in women, and can increase the chance of ectopic pregnancy, which can be fatal. Chlamydia can be cured with proper treatment.
Signs & Symptoms In Women:
- For women, unusual discharge from the vagina
- Pain while urinating
- No symptoms
Signs & Symptoms In Men:
- Strange discharge from the penis
- Pain or swelling in one or both testicles, though this is less common
- No symptoms
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is most common in sexually active individuals between the ages 15-24. Women will often not experience any symptoms, however, if they contract it and it is left untreated, Gonorrhea can develop into Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID increases risk of infertility, scar tissue formation, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. In men, untreated Gonorrhea can cause intense pain in the tubes connected to the testicles. Sometimes this can lead to sterilization. If caught, Gonorrhea can be easily treated.
Want More Information?
100% Confidential Chat
Signs & Symptoms In Women:
- Pain while urinating
- An unusual amount of vaginal discharge
- Vaginal bleeding not associated with menstruation
- No symptoms
Signs & Symptoms In Men:
- Pain while urinating
- A white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
- Painful or swollen testicles, though this is less common
- No symptoms
Client Testimonials
The 5 Stages of Syphilis
Not Necessarily In This Order
Primary Syphilis
Typically, sores will appear at the point of contact with someone who has been infected. These can be hard to detect because the sores are painless, usually round in shape and firm. They go away on their own within 3-6 weeks. This does not mean the syphilis has gone away on its own.
Secondary Syphilis
The rashes that appear during secondary syphilis are red to dark reddish-brown in color and usually cover palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The rash will not be painful or itchy, so it is also hard to detect. The rash will also disappear on its own, and syphilis will continue to advance.
Latent Syphilis
This is the period of time during which no symptoms occur, and it can last anywhere from a month to several years.
Tertiary Syphilis
Typically, sores will appear at the point of contact with someone who has been infected. These can be hard to detect because the sores are painless, usually round in shape and firm. They go away on their own within 3-6 weeks. This does not mean the syphilis has gone away on its own.
Neurosyphilis or Ocular Syphilis
Typically, sores will appear at the point of contact with someone who has been infected. These can be hard to detect because the sores are painless, usually round in shape and firm. They go away on their own within 3-6 weeks. This does not mean the syphilis has gone away on its own.
Symptoms of Neurosyphilis include: Severe Headaches, Muscle Coordination Difficulty, Paralysis, Numbness, & Dementia.
HIV/AIDS
Overall treatment for HIV has advanced significantly over the years, however, it is still a very serious disease that should not be taken lightly. The symptoms of HIV, which are often mistaken for the common cold, usually present themselves within 2-4 weeks of infection.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Severe headaches
- Body rash
- Sore throat
- Fever
We're Here For You
If you’ve recently had unprotected sex, we encourage you to schedule an appointment to speak with one of our staff members about your next steps. At Center for Women, we will listen to your unique situation and circumstances with the goal of understanding how we can best help.