Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Screening
What are STIs? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections spread by sexual contact. STIs are very common and easily spread. Some STIs can be treated and cured, but others cannot be cured. By knowing the facts, you can take steps to protect your health.
How are STIs spread? Anyone who has sexual contact with another person is at risk of getting an STI. Some STIs cause symptoms, and others do not. A person with an STI can pass it to others through contact with skin, genitals, mouth, rectum, or body fluids. This includes contact through vaginal sex, anal sex, or oral sex. Even if there are no symptoms, your health can be affected.
What causes STIs? STIs are caused by infections with bacteria or viruses. STIs caused by bacteria are treated with antibiotics. STIs caused by viruses cannot be cured, but symptoms can be treated. Even if there are no symptoms, tests can be done to diagnose infection. Testing will help you know if you have an STI so you can take steps to prevent passing it to others.
How can I protect myself from STIs?
There are many ways you can reduce your risk of getting an STI:
- Know your sexual partners—The more partners you or your partners have, the higher your risk of getting an STI.
- Use a latex or polyurethane condom—Using a latex or polyurethane condom every time you have vaginal, oral, or anal sex reduces the risk of infection.
- Know that some sex practices increase the risk— Sexual acts that tear or break the skin carry a higher risk of STIs. Anal sex poses a high risk because tissues in the rectum break easily. Body fluids also can carry STIs. Having unprotected sexual contact with an infected person poses an increased risk of getting an STI.
- Get vaccines—Vaccines are available to help protect against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV).
What are some of the most common STIs?
- Chlamydia (see Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis)
- Gonorrhea (see Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis)
- Genital herpes (see Genital Herpes)
- Hepatitis B (see Protecting Yourself Against Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C)
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (see Testing for Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
- HPV infection (see Human Papillomavirus [HPV] Vaccination)
- Syphilis (see Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis)
- Trichomoniasis (see Vaginitis)
Whatever the situation you are facing, know that our providers are here to share useful medical information and support you as you navigate your sexual health. To schedule an appointment, call our office at 407.566.2229.
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Celebration Obstetrics & Gynecology
Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm
Saturday-Sunday: Closed
Call Toll Free: (877) 800-0239
THREE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!
Celebration Office
410 Celebration Place Suite 208
Celebration, FL 34747
Davenport Office
2209 North Blvd, Ste. C
Davenport, FL 33837
Winter Garden Office
1997 Daniels Rd.
Winter Garden, FL 34787