27 Feb STD Information You Need to Know
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that sexually transmitted diseases (STD) continue to rise in the United States. According to the annual Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance Report (released October 8, 2019), the three most commonly reported STDs reached an all-time high in 2018. Syphilis increased by 14%, gonorrhea by 5%, and chlamydia by 3%.
Why is this important? Because you may have this type of infection and not even know it. These infections are easy to contract through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex. Many take comfort in using a condom, but STDs can be transmitted or contracted even when a condom is used. Unfortunately for women, these infections can be present with no symptoms or with mild symptoms that you may write off as a minor annoyance.
Antibiotics can cure syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. However, left untreated, STDs can be transmitted to others and produce adverse health outcomes. Such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and increased HIV risk. Congenital syphilis – syphilis passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy – can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, newborn death, and severe lifelong physical and neurological problems.
What does this mean for you? Educate yourself. Know the symptoms of STDs. Learn about the potential dangers of STDs and how to avoid or prevent them.
If you think you may be pregnant, it is critical that you get tested to determine whether or not you have an active STD. Regardless of your decision regarding the pregnancy. If you are pregnant and undecided about your pregnancy, contact the Rockville Women’s Center for a free pregnancy test and STD testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea. You can schedule an appointment today.