Sexual Health || Your Body and STIs

Could I have an STI?

Being sexually active means there's a chance of encountering a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Even if you haven't experienced any symptoms, it's possible to carry and transmit an STI to your partner(s). While some STIs can be treated effectively when caught early and might not lead to long-term issues, others, if left untreated, can cause lasting harm. That's why it's so crucial to prioritize regular testing and early detection.

Determining how often you should get tested depends on your individual sexual behaviors and other factors that may affect your risk.

How do I prevent an STI?

Participating in any form of sexual activity carries the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). While condoms and other barrier methods can reduce the risk, they do not eliminate it entirely. Abstinence remains the only guaranteed way to prevent STI transmission, which involves refraining from vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

However, barrier methods are far better than no protection at all, so If you are considering sexual activity or are already sexually active, be sure to use barrier methods as protection!

What if I tested positive for an STI?

Certain STIs can be effectively treated with medications or other therapeutic approaches. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider and initiate a treatment regimen tailored to your needs. Until you've been given the all-clear by your doctor, it's crucial to refrain from any sexual activity to prevent transmitting the STI to your partner(s).

Remember, there can be help, hope, and healing following an STI diagnosis. Feel free to contact us today for a confidential conversation with a peer consultant, free from any sense of shame or judgment.

Should I be tested for an STI?

If you have engaged in any sexual activity, you and your partner(s) should be tested - just to be proactive and safe!

Is it possible my partner lied to me about having an STI?

Yes, it could be possible. Sexual history is personal, and while honesty is important when beginning a relationship with a new partner, people are not always open about their STI status or sexual history, even when you feel you truly know the person.

You are at risk any time you engage in sexual activity with an infected partner(s).

My partner told me they have an STI. Should I be tested?

In this scenario, stop sexual contact and pursue STI testing immediately.

It’s crucial to begin treatment early should you also be diagnosed with an STI.

What should I do next?

It is estimated that about 20 percent of the United States population – approximately one in five people in the U.S. – has an STI. We are here to offer help and hope.

At our center, we can offer you or refer you for STI testing in your area and guide you and support you no matter your test result. Getting tested for STIs is easy and harmless. Contact us today for confidential help and support.

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, April 11). Infections continue to forge ahead, compromising the nation’s health. https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2021/default.htm#print

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, February 18). Sexually transmitted infections prevalence, incidence, and cost estimates in the united states. https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/prevalence-incidence-cost-2020.htm

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Sexually transmitted infections treatment guidelines, 2021. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report: Recommendations and Reports, 70(4), 1-190. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/STI-Guidelines-2021.pdf

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, December 14). Which STD tests should I get?. https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm

    Cleveland Clinic. (2023, February 3). Sexually transmitted infections. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9138-sexually-transmitted-diseases--infections-stds--stis

    Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Sexually transmitted infections. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/sexually-transmitted-infections-treatment

    Extend Web Services. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.extendwebservices.com/

    Mayo Clinic. (2023, April 14). Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351246

    Mayo Clinic. (2022, May 5). Sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-symptoms/art-20047081

    Mayo Clinic. (2023, April 14). STD testing: What’s right for you?. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-testing/art-20046019