How Abortion and an Untreated STI Can Impact Your Health

It’s a subject no one likes to talk about. We get it. However, protecting yourself against sexually transmitted diseases and infections is a way you can protect the future you envision for yourself.

While we advocate for getting tested anytime you have had unprotected sex or changed partners, ruling out an STD or STI before an abortion can protect you from serious complications.

Why do I need to get tested before an abortion?

During an abortion, the cervix is opened. If you have an infection, this can increase the risk of the STI spreading to other organs. Having an abortion procedure while infected with chlamydia or gonorrhea, two of the most common STIs, can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause lifelong damage and lead to future ectopic pregnancies or infertility.

We do not provide or refer for abortion services, but we can give you the medical information you need, including ultrasound verification, to make an informed decision.

What are the most common STD/STI symptoms?

Common Signs and Symptoms

1. Clear, white, greenish, or yellowish vaginal discharge or discharge from the penis

2. Strong vaginal odor

3. Itching or irritation inside the penis or vagina

4. Pain during sexual intercourse

5. Painful urination
   

However, one of the most common STD or STI symptoms is no symptom at all. We help women stay informed about risks and how to protect themselves from contracting STDs/STIs.

What if I think I’m pregnant?

We can provide in-clinic pregnancy testing, STI testing, and ultrasound confirmation so you can know how far along you are, if the pregnancy is occurring inside the uterus, and which options are available to you. Please note that we do not perform or refer for abortion services.

We can give you the answers and resources you need to make an informed choice and protect your health. Schedule an appointment today!

References

CDC – STD fact sheets. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/std/healthcomm/fact_sheets.htm