Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Your Body
Any time a person engages in sex or sex-like activity with a partner, there is a chance of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Condoms and other barrier methods may help reduce the risk of contracting an STD, but these methods are only risk reduction, not risk elimination. Many STDs show no signs or symptoms; this is why it is important to be tested regularly. [1] [3]
Could I Have an STD?
If a person has engaged in sex or sex-like activity, they are at risk for a sexually transmitted disease. Many STDs are curable if they are caught early and have no long-term effects. But if left untreated many STDs can cause damage, which is sometimes permanent. This is why testing and early detection is important. Even if you had sex but have no signs or symptoms, you could still have an STD and you can still transmit it to your partner(s). If your partner says they have been tested, there is no way to verify what they say. The only way to ensure you don’t contract an STD is by not having sex or engaging in sex-like activities with a partner(s).
How Do I Prevent an STD?
If you are engaging in sex or sex-like activity, you are at risk for a sexually transmitted disease. Condoms and other barrier methods are risk reduction, not risk elimination. If you are engaging in sex, abstinence is the only way to ensure against contracting an STD. This means not engaging in vaginal, oral, or anal sex. [2]
What If I Tested Positive for an STD?
Some STDs are curable with antibiotics or other treatment methods. Talk to your doctor and begin a treatment plan. Do not engage in sex or sex-like activity because it is transmittable. There is help, hope, and healing after an STD. Call us today to talk with a peer consultant confidentially, without shame or judgment. [1]
Who Should Be Tested for a Sexually Transmitted Disease?
Anyone, no matter your age, who is engaged or has been engaged in sex or sex-like activity with a partner(s) should be tested. [1]
Is It Possible My Partner Lied to Me About Having an STD?
People can and do lie about their STD status or sexual history. Getting to know your partner before engaging in sexual activity will not prevent them from lying to you about their sexual health. You are at risk any time you engage in sex or sex-like activity with a partner(s).
My Partner Told Me They Have an STD. Should I Be Tested?
If you have engaged in sex or sex-like activity with someone who is infected with an STD you should seek testing immediately and stop all sexual contact.
In the United States there are 110 million men and women infected with STDs. We are here to offer help and hope. We can refer you to STD testing in your area and give you guidance and support no matter your test result. Getting tested for STDs is easy and harmless; call us today for confidential help and support. [1]
[1] STD Testing-What’s Right for You? Mayo Clinic Website: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-testing/art-20046019. Last modified September 16, 2020. Retrieved December 13, 2021.
[2] Sexually Transmitted Diseases Data and Statistics. Center for Disease Control and Prevention Website: https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats/default.htm. Last Modified December 1, 2021. Retrieved December 13, 2021.
[3] Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevalence, Incidence, and Cost Estimates in the United States Website: https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/prevalence-2020-at-a-glance.htm. Last Modified January 25, 2021. Retrieved December 13, 2021.