If you’re sexually active, especially during a time of uncertainty or unplanned pregnancy, it’s normal to have questions about your health—especially when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Whether you feel fine or are experiencing symptoms, regular STD testing is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health and your future.
Here’s what you need to know.
Why STD Testing Matters
STDs are more common than many people realize—and not all of them cause noticeable symptoms right away. Without testing, you may not know you’re carrying an infection that could affect your health, your pregnancy, or your partner.
For women who are pregnant or think they might be, early STD testing is critical to avoid future reproductive health complications that may occur as a result of giving birth or having an abortion procedure while positive with an STD.
So, How Often Should You Get Tested?
How often you need testing depends on your age, sexual activity, and personal health history. Below are some general guidelines based on CDC recommendations:
- Women Under 25 Who Are Sexually Active
- Test yearly for chlamydia and gonorrhea, even if you don’t have symptoms.
- Women 25 and Older With New or Multiple Partners
- Get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea annually or as recommended by your provider.
Test any time you:
- Have a new sexual partner
- Have multiple partners
- Are pregnant or think you might be
- Experience symptoms like unusual discharge, burning during urination, or pelvic pain
- Have been told a past or current partner tested positive
What If I’m Pregnant and Think I Might Have an STD?
If you’re pregnant or suspect you might be, STD testing is an important part of protecting both your current and future reproductive health, regardless of the choice you are making concerning your pregnancy. Some infections can be treated safely during pregnancy, especially when caught early.
At Ivy Women’s Center, we offer STD testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea—the two most common STDs—to women who have a positive pregnancy test at our center. If additional testing or treatment is needed, we’ll help connect you with trusted local providers.
What Are the Symptoms of an STD?
Many STDs don’t cause symptoms at first. But when symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Vaginal discharge with unusual color or smell
- Pain or burning during urination
- Sores, bumps, or rashes
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Bleeding between periods
Even without symptoms, you can still have an STD.
You Deserve Answers and Support
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and concerned you may have an STD, or you’re not sure what your next step should be, we’re here to help. Ivy Women’s Center offers free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and STD testing for women who test positive—all in a private, compassionate setting.
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Call or text (440) 539-0206 to connect with us confidentially or use the link below.