Not knowing if you have an STD/STI or not can be stressful, full of questions and concerns. There are around 20 million new STD/STI infections each year—around half of them among young people ages 15 to 24 (according to the CDC).

It can be difficult to know if you have an STD/STI, as many people don’t even have symptoms. That’s why it’s vital to get tested to be sure. Without treatment right away, infections can grow worse quickly and cause health complications. Call our center for information on testing and treatment, completely free and confidential. You owe it to yourself to know what’s next.

What are STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STD/STIs) are passed through sex or sexual activity. STD/STIs can pass from one individual to another by blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids. Here are some common STD/STIs:

• Genital herpes
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B
• Chlamydia
• HIV/AIDS
• HPV

Common STD/STI symptoms 

STD/STIs don’t always have noticeable symptoms, but there are some common symptoms you may be experiencing. Get tested if you have any of these STD/STI symptoms…

• Painful or burning urination
• Discharge from the penis
• Sore, swollen lymph nodes
• Lower abdominal pain
• Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
• Unusual vaginal bleeding
• Pain during sex

What If I’m Pregnant?

If you have an STD/STI and are pregnant, your pregnancy can be impacted by the disease, and possibly passed to the fetus. It’s vital you understand the risks and receive treatment as soon as possible if you test positive for STD/STIs. Confirm if you have an STD/STI while pregnant. If you are considering abortion, you should know that continuing with an abortion decision along with an unknown STD/STI could cause infertility, an ectopic pregnancy, and increased HIV risk.

Here are some ways an STD/STI could impact your pregnancy…

1. Cause a miscarriage
2. Develop an ectopic pregnancy (when the embryo implants outside of the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube)
3. Put you into preterm labor and delivery (before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy)

STD/STI Testing 

Get tested today! After a short consultation at our Medical Site, Care Net Pregnancy Center provides vouchers to be redeemed at the McLennan County Healthy Department to provide testing and treatment for STD/STIs.

All results are confidential. Call (254) 772-6175 to schedule an appointment to receive a voucher. Vouchers are available to women and men. You deserve to get the clarity to move forward in life and with your pregnancy.

Contact us today to learn more. You are not alone!