Knowing your STD status is crucial for your overall well-being. It is not something anyone looks into to get to the doctor for STD testing, but knowing your status is better than learning the hard way through complications. Maybe getting compassionate providers like Troy Taylor AGNP-C can help boost your confidence and self-esteem as you consider going for testing. There are many myths and misconceptions about STDs out there, and you should seek the right information from your doctor. Here, we look at the most crucial reasons you should test for STDs regularly.

You are at the Risk of Over 25 Diseases

Many people only know a few of all the diseases that can be sexually transmitted. But know this; you are exposed to over 25 diseases when you have unprotected sex. Forget about the few common STDs you know; even if you get a specific test for conditions like HIV/AIDS, it is essential to go for annual STD testing. You might be experiencing some painful symptoms from a condition you might not know, and trying self-treatment would only mean you are using the wrong treatment.

You are at More Risks as an Adult

As you get older, life changes, and you can become more exposed to STDs than young.  When you have to divorce, you will need to find new partners, creating potential exposure. Also, if you are an adult past childbearing age and are entering into new relationships, it is good to remember to play safe. Many people focus only on unplanned pregnancies, and since they are past that, they opt to have unprotected sex.

Some STDS Have No Symptoms.

This is a crucial factor to consider to seek regular STD testing. Some diseases will hurt your life and be life-threatening but not show up. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are commonly known not to cause symptoms but can cause severe effects like infertility for both men and women. You will only catch such conditions if you maintain regular visits to your doctor, especially if you are sexually active.

Condoms are Not Perfect

The use of condoms is one of the commonly used contraceptive methods that effectively minimize your chances of unplanned pregnancy and STDs. However, it will not prevent STDs a hundred percent. Remember that the condom only covers some parts, but STDs like herpes can form on the uncovered parts like your buttocks and thighs. Note that any contact with herpes, no matter where, can cause infection. This means you are not safe when having oral sex or contacting someone with such complications.

Any Sexual Activity Can Cause Infection

You are exposed to a number o STDs if you practice anal sex, oral sex, or mutual masturbation. Many people think you can only get STDs when you have vaginal intercourse, which prevents them from seeking regular testing. But you can as well get syphilis, chlamydia, herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV) through other sexual activities. Therefore, always seek testing anytime you feel exposed to STDs, besides vaginal intercourse. Some conditions like HPV can cause throat, anal, and penile cancers, but this can be avoided when the condition is caught early.

Do not wait till the symptoms go too far. Get tested for STDs as much as you are sexually active. Remember that some conditions might not show signs and can only be identified through testing. Contact Oasis Healthcare Service, Inc today to schedule your STD testing appointment.