This April, make it a point to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It is the most important thing you can do when it comes to preventing STDs and helping to raise awareness.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people under the age of 25 are impacted the most by STDs. They represent half of all cases, even though young people only make up a quarter of the population having sex. It’s estimated that 20 million people each year in the U.S. contract an STD.
Some of the most common STDs include gonorrhea, herpes and chlamydia. Using a condom every time you have sex can reduce your chances of contracting an STD. It’s also important to have open conversations with your partners as well as health care providers about your sexual history.
Information from the CDC states that all STDs are treatable and most are curable. However, the first step is getting tested so if necessary, you can start treatment as soon as possible. Many clinics across the nation offer confidential and free or low-cost STD screenings.
The CDC lists the following screening recommendations:
- All adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV.
- Annual chlamydia and gonorrhea screening of all sexually active women younger than 25 years, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, or a sex partner who has a sexually transmitted infection.
- Syphilis, HIV, chlamydia, and hepatitis B screening for all pregnant women, and gonorrhea screening for at-risk pregnant women starting early in pregnancy, with repeat testing as needed, to protect the health of mothers and their infants.
- Screening at least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea for all sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). MSM who have multiple or anonymous partners should be screened more frequently for STDs (i.e., at 3-to-6 month intervals).
- Anyone who has unsafe sex or shares injection drug equipment should get tested for HIV at least once a year. Sexually active gay and bisexual men may benefit from more frequent testing (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).