Quick and Discreet STI Testing and Treatment in Lewes
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What is a Sexually Transmitted Infection? (STI)
The CDC estimates (STI) that one out of every five people has a sexually transmitted infection. A sexually transmitted infection can bacterial, parasitic, or viral, and as the name suggests, they are transmitted via sexual contact. STIs can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact or through bodily fluids. One of the main reasons STIs are so common is that they are asymptomatic, so you can pass them around without knowing it. That’s why regular STI screening is so important. Atracare offers anonymous, private STI screening for HIV and other common STIs.
STIs vs. STDs: What’s the Difference?
An STI is not considered an STD until the patient presents symptoms. That is the only difference between a sexually transmitted infection and a sexually transmitted disease. Healthcare professionals began using the STI acronym in place of STD whenever possible to reduce the stigma associated with STDs. STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea are often asymptomatic, so they are classified as STIs until the patient has symptoms. Not all STIs develop into STDs. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can be fought off by your immune system before developing into a disease and causing symptoms.
Common Sexually Transmitted Infections
Chlamydia, genital warts, gonorrhea, Hepatitis B, herpes, HIV, AIDS, HPV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis are all common sexually transmitted infections. You can learn about how each of these STIs are treated on Planned Parenthood’s website or by visiting Atracare’s STD information page. (link to STD page)
Medications and Treatments for Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infections caused by bacteria are treated with various strains of antibiotics that will clear the infection. Viral STIs are treated with antiviral medications, but some viral STIs can not be cured. Parasitic STIs like pubic lice can be treated with topical ointments. Getting tested each time you have unprotected sex with a new partner is important so you can be diagnosed and prescribed the proper treatment if you get a positive result.
Can You Get Over the Counter Medication for an STI?
Antibiotic and antiviral medications used to treat STIs can not be obtained over the counter. It’s important to see your doctor so you can be prescribed the correct medication for your specific STI. Some STIs like syphilis are treated with penicillin, so it’s important to discuss any allergies you have to medications with your doctor.
Will an STI Go Away on Its Own?
Some STIs like HPV will go away on their own, but many require antibiotic or antiviral treatment. Although HPV can clear up on its own, women should have routine PAP smears scheduled with their gynecologist to check for HPV because it can cause certain cancers.
How Long Does an STI Last?
The duration of an STI depends on what it is and how soon you get treated. Most bacterial STIs will clear up in a few weeks with medication. Some viral STIs may never go away. HPV can be cleared by your immune system in one or two years.
STI Symptoms in Females and Males
Once symptoms are present, an STI is then considered an STD. Common STD symptoms in females include vaginal discharge, pain during penetration, and unusual vaginal bleeding. Males commonly experience pain and swelling in the testicles and penile discharge. Both males and females may experience bumps and rashes in the genital area, pelvic pain, swollen lymph nodes in the groin, painful urination, and itching.
Atracare Offers Anonymous, Private STI Testing
Atracare offers same day STI testing to help keep the Lewes community safe and healthy. If you believe you may have contracted an STI, or you are showing symptoms of an STD, don’t hesitate to visit our Walk-in Clinic . We will work quickly to get you diagnosed so you can get your medication and get better as soon as possible.
