There’s a Rise in STDs: How Often Should You Get Tested, and How Can You Stay Safe?

Macomb Medical Clinic Blog There’s a Rise in STDs: How Often Should You Get Tested, and How Can You Stay Safe?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shared new and concerning data recently: Reported cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) were on the rise in the United States. Not only had gonorrhea cases increased by 67% and chlamydia remained at an all-time high, but cases of syphilis were up 26%, bringing it to highs unseen since the 1950s.

Even more concerning? These were only the reported cases of STDs.

Our skilled team provides convenient and cutting-edge in-office diagnostic testing for STDs at Macomb Medical Clinic in Sterling Heights, Michigan. If you’re sexually active, here’s what we recommend to help stay safe amidst the surging cases of sexually transmitted diseases in the country.

Know your risks

Approximately 20 million new cases of STD infections get diagnosed each year. These conditions spread from person-to-person through oral, vaginal, or anal contact, either through affected skin or the exchange of fluids.

While anyone who engages in sexual activity can get an STD, some factors can increase your risk of exposure, such as:

Knowing your risks can help increase your awareness, so you can proactively monitor your reproductive health.

Learn to spot the signs of an STD

You’ve likely heard of STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and herpes. However, there are dozens of infections that are spread through sexual contact. And, many cause mild or few — if any — symptoms at all.

Signs of an STD could include:

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule a screening as soon as possible. Not only can this protect your health, but it can help prevent the spread to others as well.

Be proactive about your reproductive health

Finally, the most important way to protect against STDs is through regular testing. This is especially crucial, because most people who learn they have an STD have no symptoms. 

General guidelines recommend annual testing for STDs for most sexually active individuals, including:

Anyone who is pregnant should also have an STD screening early on to avoid pregnancy complications.

Remember, these are just general guidelines. Our team can make personalized recommendations regarding how often you should get screened and which tests are the best for you. We can also provide information on how you can help protect your health, such as using condoms and other forms of protection.

Are you ready to protect your reproductive health? Get the help you need by contacting Macomb Medical Clinic today.

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