When it comes to sexual activity, unplanned pregnancies are usually the topic discussed the most. But sexually transmitted infections – otherwise known as STDS or STIs – are common among sexually active people, particularly for those 25 and under. Sexually transmitted infections pose a risk for developing several conditions that can result in other medical concerns, including infertility.
WHAT ARE STDs?
Sexually transmitted infections and/or diseases, as the name suggests, are spread through unprotected sex. While there are several kinds of STDs, the most common are gonorrhea and chlamydia. These infections are preventable and treatable, but can cause issues like infertility if not addressed. STIs are passed through vaginal fluids, semen or blood during sexual contact.
SYMPTOMS OF STDS
Many people infected with an STD might not know it because they don’t experience any symptoms. This is why it’s important to get tested for STDs if you think you may have been exposed. At Clearway Clinic, we offer free STD urine testing. The faster you can get treatment, the less likely it is to impact fertility and other issues down the road.
Some of the more common symptoms to look out for with a possible STD infection include vaginal bleeding, painful sex, fever, burning and pain during urination, and/or rash. If you experience any of these and think you may have been exposed to someone with an STD, get tested as soon as possible.
STDS AND FERTILITY
Even if you don’t plan or want to start a family anytime soon, it’s important to know that STDs can impact your fertility. Women experience this more often, as an untreated STD can cause a condition called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, or PID. PID affects fertility by leaving scar tissue on the reproductive organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the uterus and the cervix. Bacteria enters the body and reproductive systems through sexual contact and eventually infects these organs.
Any scarring on the fallopian tubes in particular can affect fertility for women. Scar tissue makes it difficult for sperm to be able to meet and fertilize the egg. If a fertilized egg tries to implant in the uterus and is blocked by scarring along the way, infertility is likely a result. While there are some treatment options to address any concerns after the fact, treating an STD infection as soon as you can means less time for scarring to develop. Symptoms of PID include abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding, and abnormal discharge – all of which can be avoided with proper treatment.
BOOK STD TESTING NOW
Think you might have an STD and want a safe place to get tested? Schedule your free STD testing at Clearway Clinic. If you test positive for an STD, you can get treated right away. Book your confidential, no-cost STD testing appointment today.