What is an std?
A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is also known as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). If you are sexually active, you risk contracting and passing on an STD.
You can get an STD through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The following people are more susceptible to getting STDs:
- Young people aged 15-24
- Pregnant women
- Certain minority groups
More than 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were reported in 2021. (Due to COVID-19, many cases went untested and unreported, so the number may be higher.)
The CDC reports that STDs are on the rise. In four years, cases of syphilis among newborns alone rose 203%.
Why Do I Need STD Testing If I Don’t Have Symptoms?
No one wants to think about having an STD. After all, that only happens to other people, and it’s embarrassing to talk about your sex life. However, if you are sexually active, you should receive regular screening for STDs.
Up to 70% of STDs have no signs or symptoms (they’re asymptomatic), and in fact, the #1 symptom of STDs is no symptoms at all. Because there may be no symptoms, people put off getting tested.
If left untreated, STDs can cause the following:
- Increased risk of giving or getting HIV
- Long-term pelvic/abdominal pain
- Inability to get pregnant or pregnancy complications
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
What Does Alpha Center Test For?
STDs are very common. The good news is they are also preventable, and most are curable.
We give our patients the best care possible. Our nurses screen for the following STDs:
- HIV
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
Who Does Alpha Center Test?
Both men and women can make an appointment at Alpha Center for STD testing. We offer routine STD screening and treatment at no cost to you up to twice per year. We also offer testing for partners of those who have had a positive result, and tests for re-infection.
As we offer our services at no cost, your insurance is not billed, and testing is completely confidential. Please note:
- We require your ID to create your patient chart and verify your identity. This information is not shared outside of our office.
- If you are a part of the Banner Health System, your results can appear in your patient file.
What Does Alpha Center Treat?
Currently, Alpha Center treats chlamydia for free. We will provide the necessary paperwork and referrals for further evaluation and treatment of other STDs if you receive a positive result for gonorrhea, HIV, or syphilis.
What Should I Expect At My Appointment?
Your appointment will last approximately 45 minutes so we can provide proper screening and you will meet with one of our registered nurses. You are required to schedule an appointment for STD testing. Please call 970-239-2272 to set up a time.
