STDs are not uncommon, and there are over 20 million new cases every year. If you are sexually active, you should be concerned about your sexual health and consider seeking STD testing. The Phoenix STD testing specialists promise accurate and confidential testing to ensure you are confident about the service. Note that some STDs are more prevalent than others, and any time you suspect you have been exposed to the infections, you should go in for testing. Generally, everyone should be tested for STDs at some point in their lives. Here are some reasons to motivate you to consider STD testing.
Over 25 Diseases are Sexually Transmitted
Although many people are only familiar with a few common STDs, it is good you understand that over 25 different conditions can be sexually transmitted and not just HIV, Herpes, and other common infections. So anytime you are having unprotected sex, you are exposing yourself to so many infections and, that is why you should seek testing often. Experts recommend annual STD testing for all sexually active adults even if one does not show any symptoms.
STDs are on the Rise Among Older Adults
Many older adults do not realize that they are at risk of STDs like young people. Some people even believe that STDs are for young people who are more sexually active and likely to have multiple partners. However, life can change and you can be divorced and looking for a new partner. If you are past the childbearing years, understand that though you can be less worried about unplanned pregnancies, you should be concerned about STDs. Protection is still a must, and you should be tested often.
Some STDs have no Symptoms
Gonorrhea and chlamydia are common STDs that will not show signs but are dangerous to affect fertility. Therefore, you should be tested for STDs even if you are not experiencing symptoms to ensure such conditions do not go undetected. Remember that an untreated STD can scar your fallopian tubes, preventing fertilization or keeping the fertilized egg away from the womb. Also, note that although rare, male fertility can also be compromised by STDs.
Condoms Might not Protect You
Although you might use condoms for protection when having sex, understand that they do not protect you from STDs 100 percent. Conditions like genital herpes may affect the parts not covered by the condom, such as your thighs and buttocks. Also, contact with herpes anywhere can cause an infection. Even having oral sex is not safe when the other party has a sore mouth. You can also contract genital herpes infection. So even if you do not engage in genital sex, you are at the risk of contracting some STDs and should be tested.
STDs are Spread Not Just through Intercourse
You should understand that any sexual activity can spread STDs. Masturbation, anal, and oral sex can expose you to STDs like syphilis, chlamydia, and human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is associated with some forms of cancer, such as cervical, anal, penile, and throat cancer. Therefore, take note that there is no sexual activity that is safe from STDs, and you should be tested anytime you feel you have been exposed.
Remember that you do not have to wait for symptoms to get tested for STDs. Contact Desert Star Family Planning and learn more about STD testing and get tested to ensure no infection goes undetected. This can help you safeguard your fertility.