STD Screening St Louis: Need STD testing? We’re allies for health and empowerment

Do you feel in control of your health? Or does it feel like things are spiraling? We get it. Life is busy. Sometimes, we might even put the needs of others ahead of our own. Trying to take care of everybody else can lead to you feeling overwhelmed. If this is the case for you lately, maybe it’s time to put yourself first.

Taking control of your sexual health is one of the most empowering moves you can make. It’s about feeling confident in your body. You deserve that. It’s hard to take care of yourself, your goals, and others if you don’t have confidence in your own health. It helps to know that you’re making decisions that support your well-being and staying ahead of any potential issues.

We want you to know you have a true advocate in this journey. We’re here to give you the support and info to make choices that keep you safe and strong. You’ve got goals, things to get done, and places to be. But no matter what’s going on in your life, your health deserves some TLC (tender loving care)! It might be time for an STD screening St Louis. Here (in the 314 area code of St. Louis County and beyond), you’re got resources to protect your health and future.  

If you’ve been sexually active, it’s important for you to get screened for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Have you had any painful or uncomfortable symptoms? Even if you haven’t, it’s still possible to be infected with a disease. Some STDs are asymptomatic (don’t show signs) and don’t show up for many years. Regardless of when you were sexually active, a screening is important to make sure you’re healthy. It’s worth protecting your future with STD testing and treatment.

Getting to Know the Most Common STDs

Knowing what STDs are out there, what they do, and how they might affect you is powerful. If you suspect you might have one, jot down what symptoms you have, and how long you’ve had them. Here are some common STDs. 

– Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: Chlamydia and gonorrhea are infections of the genital tract. They might not show signs.¹ But if left untreated, they can cause serious complications, like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause chronic pain and affect your ability to get pregnant in the future.² Symptoms can sometimes include unusual discharge, burning when you pee, or pain during sex.¹ An STD test is the only way to catch them early. Treatment is always a safe bet for your health.

– HIV: This virus impacts your immune system. While it’s manageable with medication, you’d need early detection to slow its progression. Some people experience flu-like symptoms initially, but HIV can stay silent for years.¹

– Syphilis: Syphilis often happens in three stages. It can start with painless sores that might disappear, but syphilis doesn’t go away without treatment. Without treatment, it can impact your heart, brain, and nervous system down the line. It’s a big deal. But again, early detection is key. It pays to get screened.¹

– Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): BV isn’t an STD, but it’s more common in women who’ve been sexually active. BV is a bacterial imbalance that’s common and treatable, but it can cause unpleasant discharge, odor, and irritation. Untreated BV may increase your chances of getting an STI or pelvic inflammatory disease.³

– Trichomoniasis: “Trich” is a parasite that’s too tiny to be seen without a microscope. It can cause irritation, itching, and “fishy” smelling vaginal discharge. Like others, it’s not always obvious, but if left untreated, it can increase the risk of other health issues.¹

– Genital herpes: Genital herpes is caused by a virus, and spreads easily. It can cause pain or itching in the genital area, vaginal discharge, or open sores on the genitals, mouth, or rectum. People can have genital herpes without knowing.¹

Having one STI makes it easier for another one to take hold.⁴ ThriVe offers no-cost testing for a range of common STDs. Contact us to find out which testing is available. We’re here for you.

Why Early Detection is a Flex

A lot of these STDs are silent. That means they don’t always come with noticeable signs or effects, and it can be easy for them to fly under the radar. But even when they’re quiet, untreated STDs can still impact your body. Without treatment, these infections can lead to long-term problems, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased risk for other STIs.¹ 

Early detection through regular screenings is super important. Catching an infection early makes treatment simpler, keeps symptoms at bay, and prevents further complications. Some STDs can be completely cured, and others need more complicated management.¹ But even if the STI can’t be totally cured, they’re all treatable with medicine.⁵ Getting tested is really a small investment of your time, for a big impact on your health. And because we offer screenings at no-cost, there’s really no reason to delay your screening!

Getting Your Glow Back

Choosing when, where, and with whom to have sex is an extremely personal decision. Only you can make that choice. Waiting until you’re in a long-term, committed, monogamous relationship is the surest way to avoid things like STDs or unplanned pregnancy.¹ It helps you protect your health and build confidence in your sexual choices. 

How do women really get confidence in their health? Well, an STD screening can keep you “in the know” about your health and help protect your future. Waiting for the right time and relationship allows you to keep a clear sense of security and self-assurance. It’s also the only way to have 100% confidence in your reproductive future and health. 

Choosing to delay sex means you’re taking steps to safeguard your future. This is your health. Your future. Only you have the power to take control.

ThriVe is Here for You

ThriVe is different from a cold, sterile hospital or clinic — we’re your partner in this journey. We’re a women’s center: no-cost services by women, for women. When you come to us, you’re not just getting a test — you’re getting a whole support system that cares about you. Our no-cost services include lab-quality screenings in a confidential, no-judgment space, so you can feel safe and empowered to make the best choices for your health. 

Remember, taking charge of your sexual health isn’t just about today — it’s about investing in your future health and happiness. So, when you’re ready, reach out to us for screenings, guidance, and a community that’s here to back you up. You can chat with us on our website, contact us for an appointment, or we may even have a walk-in available. We’re in your corner, no matter what.

Sources: