Studies show that ‘Today, no fewer than 1 in 5 people are living with an STI, while more than 26 million are newly infected with either a curable or incurable STI.’ STDs are more common than you may think.
Worried you may have an STD and if it will go away on its own? It’s important to safeguard your health by getting tested and treated (if needed) right away to prevent further infection.
Do STDs Go Away on Their Own?
Most STDs do not go away on their own and require immediate medical treatment to prevent further infection and disease. Be sure to get tested promptly so you can minimize the risks to your health. Get the support and advice you need from a medical professional today.
What Are STDs?
STD stands for sexually transmitted disease, a disease or infection that is contagious and can spread through sexual contact or bodily fluids like semen or blood. It’s more common to contract an STD when you have multiple partners.
STDs can be caused by the following:
- Bacteria – Gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia are examples of STDs that are caused by bacteria.
- Parasites – Trichomoniasis is an STD caused by a parasite.
- Viruses – STDs caused by viruses include human papillomavirus (HPV), the herpes simplex virus, and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes AIDS.
Understand the Risks of STDs
An STD going untreated can be a threat to your health, and that is why STD testing is so vital. According to the Mayo Clinic, complications of STDs can include:
- Pelvic pain
- Pregnancy complications
- Eye inflammation
- Arthritis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Infertility
- Heart disease
- Certain cancers, such as HPV-associated cervical, rectal, and oral cancers
Get Support Today
You are not alone as you face a potential STD. Safeguard your health by getting tested and treated. If you need more STD information, we are happy to connect you with available community resources for support. Contact us today to learn more.