What to Look Out For
Getting straight to the point, some of you may be asking yourselves, “should I get an STI test?” STI stands for “sexually transmitted infection.” If you engage in any type of sexual contact (penetrative, oral, anal, etc.), that’s a question you should be considering. Sometimes STIs have symptoms, and sometimes they do not. Different STIs symptoms can include: flu-like symptoms like fever, body aches, swollen glands, and feeling tired, irregular discharge, itching, pain, irritation and/or swelling on your genitals, etc. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or anything else irregular, it would be beneficial to consider talking to a health professional and/or getting tested. There are some cases where individuals may not experience any symptoms but still may have an STI, so if you have had unprotected sex of any kind, it may be a good idea to have a conversation with your healthcare provider.

STD Testing – How To Know If You Have An STD | Planned Parenthood Video

Why is it Important?
Now, some people may wonder, “why is getting tested important?” There are several reasons why getting STI testing is important. First of all, it is one of the most important things you can do for your health. If STIs are left untreated or undetected, they can lead to more serious health issues long-term such as infertility, cervical cancer, etc. Along with that, most STIs don’t result in symptoms right away, so it is better to detect them earlier to get the appropriate treatment. Getting tested regularly is also important before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, so that you and your partner know that you are engaging in safe sex.

Where to Seek Testing
You can get tested for STIs at your doctor’s office, a community health clinic, or the health department. If you are still unsure if you should seek testing, feel free to take this quiz to see if it’s time to consider one:

https://tools.plannedparenthood.org/std/intro

Local Places to Get STI Testing Done
https://www.washoecounty.us/health/programs-and-services/cchs/sexual-health-program/index.php
https://www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/community-health-center/sexual-health-clinic/

STI testing is just another tool that can be used to improve our overall health. When STIs go a long period of time without treatment, they could lead to other health issues that could have been prevented in the first place. It is also important to know your if you have any STIs, that way you can be upfront with any future sexual partners. STI testing is just as important as any other routine check-up.

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This blog post was written by Angela, an intern with Immunize Nevada.

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Resources
CDC – Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Planned Parenthood