STD Testing

Nearly half of all Americans will contract an STD at some point in their life. If you are sexually active, you are at risk. It is vital to get tested to know you are not infected. The CDC estimates that young people ages 15-24 account for almost half of the 26 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

What Are STDs?

STDs or “sexually transmitted diseases” (you may have heard them referred to as STIs or “sexually transmitted infections”) are either viral or bacterial infections impacting the sexual organs and sometimes other parts of the body.

Any sexual activity can spread sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) by sharing body fluids or skin-to-skin contact with an infected partner.

Rarely Show Symptoms

Most infected people have no symptoms, and you may get more than one STD at a time. However, even with no signs, you can pass the infection to your sex partners. Your risk multiplies with every sexual encounter.

Free STD Testing and Treatment

Loving Choices offers free STD testing and treatment for women. These are the STDs we test and treat*:

• Syphilis – Common infections during the early stages of syphilis can affect a person’s vision or hearing. Syphilis is simple to cure in its early stages but can cause severe problems when left untreated.
• Gonorrhea – The CDC recommends annual screening for gonorrhea infection for all sexually active women under 25. It usually has no symptoms but can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) if left untreated. PID can lead to infertility. With the proper medication, gonorrhea can be treated.
• Chlamydia – Chlamydia is the most commonly reported bacterial STD in the United States. It rarely has immediate symptoms but can cause PID, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility if left untreated.
• Trichomoniasis – If not treated, trichomoniasis can increase a person’s chances of getting or spreading other STDs. Most persons who have trichomoniasis have minimal or no genital symptoms, and untreated infections might last from months to years.

* All STD information is found on the CDC website.

There are many types of STDs. Some have symptoms, and some do not.

Don’t wonder. Know for sure. Call to make an appointment.