Your Health and STI's and STD's
It's your future. Take charge. Be informed.
STDS, STIS and your health
An STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) is an infection that does not show any physical signs or symptoms. It is contracted from another infected person through sexual activity, including vaginal, oral and anal sex and skin-to-skin contact. It becomes an STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) when symptoms appear. It’s important to remember that not all infected people will have signs or symptoms. The problem is that some of these STIs can cause a lot of damage and can be passed to your partner without your knowledge. You do not have to have symptoms to be contagious; you can spread the infection any time you engage in sexual behavior.
CONTRACEPTIVES + SEXUAL RISK AVOIDANCE
Condoms reduce the risk of contracting some STDs, but they do not provide full protection. Many people are misinformed and think that condoms or other barrier methods eliminate the risk completely. Learn more about how you can protect yourself from risks to your health and your future.
when should I get tested?
You need to get tested if:
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you've recently had unprotected sex
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you've had a change in partners
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you have experienced itching or burning in your pelvic area
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you are pregnant
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you have scheduled an abortion
You may need to get tested even if you have no symptoms or consistently use a condom. Sex always carries the risks of STIs and STDs, even oral and anal sex.
How we can help
The Hope Center offers free STI testing for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia to women who believe they may have been exposed. In the event of a positive result for either infection treatment will be offered at no charge.
If you need a full panel test, Hope has referrals for STI testing and treatment in the Boone, NC area.