While receiving an STD test may seem embarrassing or unnecessary, the truth is, if you’re sexually active, STD testing should absolutely be part of your routine health screening. Thankfully, you can access free STD testing at your local pregnancy clinic, like Mosaic Health. Not convinced STD testing is for you? Below are 3 reasons to take advantage of free STD testing offered through your local pregnancy center:
1. You can be asymptomatic with an STD infection
You may be thinking, “Why would I need STD testing? I feel totally fine!” Unfortunately, STDs can be present without any symptoms or signs at all or there may be a significant delay between infection and the presentation of any noticeable side effects. Not only does this mean that you could be living with a dangerous health condition without knowing it, but it also means you may be infecting others through sexual contact.
2. STDs can result in pregnancy health complications
If you think you may be pregnant or would like to become pregnant in the future, knowing whether you have an STD is imperative to both your health and the health and safety of the baby.fetus.
Some STDs, like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Genital herpes, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, HPV/genital warts, Syphilis, or Trichomonas Vaginalis, can be passed from the mother to the fetus during the course of pregnancy or as the baby passes through the birth canal. Being infected with an STD can lead to various pregnancy complications depending on the type of infection. Potential complications include:
Premature birth
Eye infection
Pneumonia
Blood infection
Brain damage
Blindness
Deafness
Chronic liver disease
Stillbirth
3. It’s easy and free through your local pregnancy center!
When it comes to STDs, the sooner one is detected, the better! Thankfully, STD testing is easy and free at pregnancy centers like Mosaic Health!
We are currently offering testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea in both men and women, as well as STD/STI consultations, risk assessments, and doctor referrals.
In addition to STD testing and treatment, we provide free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, abortion recovery, parenting classes, material resources, and more!
Schedule your appointment today!