April is Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Awareness Month. It’s imperative to learn the facts about STIs. False assumptions about STIs – how they’re spread, prevented, and treated – are everywhere, and it can be especially hard for people to get the facts. Making sure that you have the correct information about STI prevention and testing has never been more important.
Fast Facts About STIs from the CDC:
- STIs impact young people the hardest. In the U.S., almost half of all new infections in 2018 were among people aged 15-24.
- Almost all STIs that can be spread via condomless vaginal sex also can be spread through oral and anal sex without a condom.
- You can’t tell if someone has an STI just by looking at them. Many infections don’t cause any symptoms, so the only way to know for sure is to get tested.
- Even if you use birth control, you should still think about STI prevention. Birth control methods like the pill, patch, ring, and IUD are very effective at preventing pregnancy, but they do not protect against STIs and HIV.
- Some STIs can lead to serious health problems if they’re not treated. For example, an untreated STI, like chlamydia, can make it difficult or impossible for a woman to get pregnant. An untreated STI can also increase the chances of transmitting or getting HIV.
Testing is the only way to know if you have an STI! Call one of our clinics to get scheduled for testing today! Get tested. Be treated.
Sioux Falls: 605-339-0420
Pierre: 605-224-8841
If you’re on the fence about getting tested and wonder if you should be tested, take the quiz here.
