Looking for an “STD screening near me?”
First off, I want to say you’re doing an amazing job just by reaching out and seeking information. Taking care of yourself during an unplanned pregnancy is crucial, and one key aspect of self-care is getting tested for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Let’s chat about why this is so important and what you can expect.
Is STD screening totally necessary?
Getting an STD screening near me is super necessary. It’s part of taking care of your health — both now and for the future. Getting tested can prevent serious health problems. And if you’re pregnant, an STD screening is recommended by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control).1 Even if you’re considering abortion, this is a biggie. That’s why we include a no-cost STD screening in our pre-abortion screenings.
Who should get tested?
Anyone who is sexually active should be tested for STDs (also called STIs, or sexually transmitted infections).1 But it’s particularly important if you’re pregnant. It doesn’t matter if you have symptoms or not. Many STDs can be “silent” or not show any symptoms.1 So, even if you feel perfectly healthy, testing is the best way to ensure everything is okay.
Having sex can put you at risk for STDs. The only way to totally avoid STDs is to postpone sex for now. ThriVe+ is a safe place to get STD screening near me, and we don’t judge. We’re here to help.
How STDs Can Affect You (And Your Pregnancy)
STDs can have serious health implications for both you and your pregnancy if left untreated. Here are some ways specific STDs can impact you while you’re pregnant:
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: These infections can cause painful symptoms and discharge.2 If they aren’t treated, they can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) — which can cause chronic pain and make it difficult to get pregnant later, when you want to.3
And if you choose to continue the pregnancy, untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause serious problems or even death for the baby.3
Syphilis: If syphilis isn’t treated, it can cause serious damage to your internal organs, and even death.2 But if it’s caught early and treated, it can be cured!4
Syphilis can also cross the placenta and infect your baby, potentially leading to stillbirth, premature birth, or birth defects.4
HIV: HIV interferes with your body’s ability to fight off viruses, bacteria, and fungi that cause illness. If left untreated, it can lead to AIDS — a life threatening disease.2 And women with HIV may develop aggressive cervical cancer.2
But the sooner you start treatment, the more effective it is. This is a reason it’s important to look for an STD screening near me!
If the disease is found, and you take the medicines as directed, it’s possible to lower the virus load until it can’t be found and you won’t spread it to your future long-term partner.2
The CDC advises that everyone who is pregnant should be screened for HIV.1
Herpes: Herpes often shows no symptoms! But when it does, it can cause pain and itching in the genitals and buttocks 2— and even a condition called internal inflammatory disease (swelling of the rectum, vagina, uterus, cervix and ureter).5
Genital herpes can be passed to the baby during birth, which can cause serious infections or even death.5 But if you know you have herpes, there are treatments to lower the risks.5
Hepatitis B: This virus can lead to serious complications like scarring of your liver, liver cancer, and liver failure.6 But treatment (after finding the infection at an STD screening near me) can reduce these risks.7
Hepatitis B can also be transmitted to a baby during birth.6
Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite. This infection can cause painful sex, vaginal itching, burning, and soreness, and a strong odor coming from your vagina.2 But it can be treated with an antibiotic.8
For women who continue their pregnancy, untreated trichomoniasis can cause a baby to be born prematurely.8
For all of these infections, STD screening near me is the first step in getting treated.
Why Testing is Important
Early Detection: Many STDs don’t show symptoms, so you might not even know you have one.1 Early detection through testing allows enough time for you to get treated. That reduces the risk of complications.
Preventing Transmission: Treatment can prevent the transmission of the infection to your baby during pregnancy or delivery.3
Peace of Mind: Knowing your STD status can alleviate anxiety and help you focus on other aspects of your pregnancy decision. You should make sure you’re screened before making that choice- your health is important.
So what can I expect during a screening?
Getting tested might sound uncomfortable, but it’s usually quick and straightforward. Here’s what you can expect at a no-cost STD screening at ThriVe+:
1. Questionnaire: You’ll be welcomed in, then asked some questions about your sexual history and any symptoms you might have. This helps the healthcare provider understand which tests you need.
2. Physical Exam: First, you located an STD screening near me. Now, depending on what STDs you’re being tested for, a physical exam might be necessary.
3. Samples: You might provide a urine sample, a blood sample, or a swab from your genital area, mouth, or rectum.
4. Results: Some tests give instant results, while others might take a few days. Our healthcare provider will explain what comes next based on your results.
How can you get ready for your appointment?
Preparing for your appointment is simple:
- Be Honest: Hey, we’re not here to judge. We care about you and want to help. The more honest you are about your sexual history, the better the care you’ll receive. Remember, we’re pro-woman. You’re in a safe place.
- List Your Questions: Write down any questions or concerns you have so you don’t forget to ask them during your appointment. Of course, if you do forget, you can always contact us later with your questions.
- Relax: Know that you’re taking a positive step for your health, whether or not you’re considering abortion.
You deserve high quality care
At ThriVe+, we’re all about providing a confidential, caring, and non-judgmental space. That’s why we offer you (and all women) a no-cost STD screening near me. We’re here to empower you with support and medically accurate info. You deserve a healthy future. Our goal is to make sure you feel safe, respected, and informed every step of the way.
You deserve to feel supported and to have the best possible care. Prioritizing your health is a big part of that. We’re here to help you through it all. Taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of your mind, body, and spirit.
STD screening while pregnant
An unplanned pregnancy can bring a mix of emotions and stress. It’s completely normal to have mixed feelings right now. We get it. Maybe you’re feeling scared, confused, excited, or even all of those at once. It’s okay. The most important thing to remember is to be extra kind to yourself during this time.
Why Self-Care is Crucial
Self-care is always important, but even more so if you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy. Finding “STD screening near me” is just one part of self-care right now. Your body and mind are going through a lot. Taking care of yourself will help you navigate this more smoothly.
Here’s why self-care matters so much:
1. Physical Health: Your body is working hard to support both you and your developing fetus. Eat well, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and make an appointment with your doctor. Finding “STD screening near me” is just a piece of that.
2. Mental Health: It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or anxious. Lots of women feel mixed emotions during pregnancy. Practice some self-care to help manage stress and maintain your mental health. Try things like meditation, gentle exercise, and talking to a counselor. It can make a big difference.
3. Emotional Well-being: Mixed emotions are part of the process. Give yourself permission to feel whatever you’re feeling. Give yourself some grace. It’s a key part of self-care. Getting STD screening near me can give you peace of mind. It’s okay to seek support from friends, family, or an advocate here at ThriVe+.
Be kind to yourself
During this time, being kind to yourself means recognizing your needs and giving yourself grace. Here are some tips:
– Acknowledge Your Feelings: Allow yourself to feel all your emotions without guilt. Every feeling is valid and part of your journey.
– Set Boundaries: It’s okay to take a step back from people or situations that add stress. Surround yourself with supportive and understanding people.
– Take Breaks: Make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you relax. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or just sitting quietly, these moments are valuable.
– Seek Support: You don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or women’s advocates at ThriVe+ who can support you.
We’re Here for You
At ThriVe, we understand. It’s overwhelming to face an unplanned pregnancy. We’ve got your back. You deserve great care and the most medically accurate info out there. It’s your body, and your decision. Finding STD screening near me is just part of taking care of yourself right now. Our goal is to empower you to make the best decision for yourself. Come see us for a no-cost STD screening when you’re ready.
Sources:
1 https://www.cdc.gov/sti/testing/index.html
4 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/syphilis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351756
5https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/genital-herpes/symptoms-causes/syc-20356161
6https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-b/symptoms-causes/syc-20366802
7https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-b/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20366821
8https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trichomoniasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378609
