Your overall health should always be a top priority in your life—and that includes your sexual health. Sexually transmitted diseases are one of the most common conditions across the state and country. In fact, one in five people will contract one in any given year.

If you are sexually active, you should be getting tested for STDs regularly as part of your preventive care routine. This not only protects you, but it also protects your partners!

Stop by our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville center for an STD test if needed and read on to learn more about STDs.

Should I Be Tested Even if I Don’t Have STD Symptoms?

STDs can be tricky at times because some cases don’t present with any symptoms whatsoever. You could have contracted it from someone without knowing it and then you could be spreading it on without intending to. No one wants to be responsible for making someone else sick! Getting tested regularly can help you catch an STD before spreading it your partner.

If you are starting to experience symptoms, STDs often cause burning during urination, abnormal discharge and pain during or after intercourse. These signs may mean something is amiss, so the best thing to do is to get tested.

Common STD Tests at AFC Knoxville

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• HPV

Do STDs Cause Complications?

Without treatment, many STDs can get worse and can actually lead to long-term health complications and consequences. The damage done can cause infertility, pregnancy complications and certain diseases like pelvic inflammatory disease. All of this can be avoided if you just come see us regularly!

A simple blood draw, urine sample or swab can be taken and tested, and you can have your results in as little as 30 minutes for some STDs. If any of the tests come back positive, we can discuss next steps and quick treatment options so you can get back to your regular life as soon as possible.

Preventing Future STD Tips

• Test frequently/before a new relationship.
• Communicate clearly with your partner.
• Always wear a condom.
• Get vaccinated for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV.

Are you concerned that you contracted an STD? Come get tested at AFC Urgent Care Knoxville today.