Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), commonly known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are widespread among people of all ages in the United States. STIs are particularly rising among younger individuals. There are numerous known STIs in the US, categorized as follows:

• Bacterial: These STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, are generally curable with antibiotics.
• Viral: While viral STIs cannot be cured, many can be managed with medication prescribed by a healthcare professional. Some, like HPV, may resolve on their own. Viral STIs include HIV, genital herpes, HPV, and Hepatitis B & C.
• Parasitic: Common parasitic STIs include pubic lice and scabies, which can usually be treated with medications and creams.

STIs often come with specific symptoms, such as burning during urination, itching, discharge, and sores. It’s crucial to get tested if you experience any of these symptoms.

Common STIs include:

• Chlamydia
• Genital herpes
• Genital warts
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes AIDS
• Pubic lice

Many people may not realize they are infected because some STIs have no symptoms. You could be infected for years without knowing it. Even without symptoms, STIs can still cause damage to your body.

Treating STIs

While many STIs can be treated or managed with medication, untreated STIs can lead to serious issues. It is highly recommended to get tested if you are sexually active, even if you have only one partner. Testing can be done even if no symptoms are present. Experts often use the term sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to highlight that infections can exist without disease symptoms.

Regular testing is important as untreated STIs can lead to:

• Increased risk of infertility
• Certain types of cancer
• Transmission to sexual partners
• Harm to an unborn baby if pregnant
• Increased susceptibility to HIV infections

ApproXie Urgent Care STI Testing

How is STI testing performed? Your healthcare provider will choose the appropriate test based on your symptoms (such as pain, sores, discharge, etc.), medical history, and sexual history.

We may test for STIs using:

• Blood samples
• Urine samples
• Swabs from the mouth
• Swabs from the genitals
• Swabs of discharge or sores

Fortunately, STI testing at ApproXie Urgent Care is quick and painless. Our experienced medical team is equipped to provide fast, reliable testing and treatment.