While there are plenty of reasons you can think of to delay getting an STD test-you're too busy, it's inconvenient, it's embarrassing to ask for on-there are many more reasons to make sure you get tested for STDs every year. Check out these ten reasons to head out for your annual STD screening sooner than later.
You know many STDs are asymptomatic
You may not be experiencing any obvious symptoms, but many STDs do not produce reliable symptoms. You and your partner may both have an STD and never show a single symptom.
You want to protect your fertility
Many STDs threaten fertility. Often these STDs remain symptomless, so the bacteria or virus is destroying your ability to produce children without you even knowing you're infected. Typically early detection is the key to successful treatment.
You understand cervical cancer prevention
Cervical cancer is a serious health threat for women. It is often caused by contraction of HPV, human papillovirus, an often symptomless STD. Get tested for HPV each year and protect your cervix from developing cancer.
You realize you can only control your actions
You may think your relationship is a monogamous one, but it might not be. Be wise. Get checked for STDs annually just in case your partner is either an asymptomatic carrier or has been infected by someone else. It's simply good self-defense to get checked each year.
You're about to start a new intimate relationship
You don't want to enter into a new relationship, be physically intimate and then discover you have an STD. Be responsible and get checked out before you cross that line. It's the most respectful way to start a relationship.
You've been intimate with someone questionable
If you said yes to sex before thoroughly vetting your new partner, you'll want to ask him or her to get tested and get yourself tested before you are intimate again.
You are experiencing suspicious symptoms
Have you noticed unusual bumps or lesions down there? Experiencing some unpleasant discharge? Get it checked out before the problem turns into something serious or you risk giving an STD to your partner.
You did not use a condom
If you've engaged in unsafe sex with a new partner, you need to race to the clinic for an STD test. It's better to be safe than sorry, and early detection is the key to dealing with some of these STDs before they do much damage.
You engaged in oral sex
You may have thought oral sex was safe sex, but many STDs are passed through oral to genital contact. Ask your partner to get checked out, too.
You're a responsible citizen
You don't want to be the one who gave someone else an STD, right? Do the right thing and make sure you stay clean.
Don't delay. If you need help finding out where to get tested for STDs, look up your nearest Planned Parenthood clinic. Getting tested for STDs can protect you and your partner from very unpleasant consequences.
 | No one wants to think she might have STDs. The statistics prove, however, that they have likely affected you or someone you know. Getting tested and knowing basic STD information is key to good health. |
 | This list of STDs is one of the most important lists you can learn. There are many STDs that may not show symptoms; it is important to realize just why you should be concerned if you believe you may have been exposed to the STD. |
If you fear that you may have contracted an STD, it is important to get tested as quickly as possible. It is also important to review the following common STD signs. |
While dating does change for those with STDs, you should not lose hope. There are many ways to cope with your dating limitations, some of which may actually enhance your dating relationships. |
Because of the serious health risks associated with some STDs, you will want to educate yourself about STD prevention. |
