What Is An STI?
Bacteria, viruses, or parasites passed from person to person, usually through sexual contact, cause sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
If you have vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse or genital touching, you risk getting an STI.
Who Gets An STI/STD?
Individuals of all ages contract STDs, but they take the heaviest toll on young people. CDC estimates that youth ages 15-24 account for almost half of the 26 million new sexually transmitted infections that occurred in the United States in 2018.
CDC estimates indicate about 20% of the U.S. population—approximately one in five people in the U.S.—had an STI on any given day in 2018.
Free STI/STD Testing
We offer testing for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia for women and men concerned about possible Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) exposure.
Free STD testing appointments include education on STDs and guidance on risk avoidance through good sexual choices. Please call 513-244-5700 to schedule an appointment.
Results will be available within a week of the appointment. Testing is limited to Gonorrhea and Chlamydia only.
What Are The Symptoms Of STIs?
STI symptoms aren’t always obvious. Because you don’t immediately recognize you or your partner have one, you don’t get tested. Never assume a person is STI-free just because they look healthy.
Most STIs can be easily treated with antibiotics but left untreated, STIs increase your risk of more severe health concerns like infertility, organ damage, certain cancers, and death.
Two Of The More Common STIs
According to the Mayo Clinic, these are two of the most common STIs and their symptoms.
Chlamydia symptoms
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection of your genital tract. Chlamydia may be difficult to detect because early-stage infections often cause few or no signs and symptoms. When they occur, symptoms usually start one to three weeks after exposure and may be mild and pass quickly.
Signs and symptoms may include:
- Painful urination
- Lower abdominal pain
- Vaginal discharge in women
- Discharge from the penis in men
- Pain during sexual intercourse in women
- Bleeding between periods in women
- Testicular pain in men
Gonorrhea symptoms
Gonorrhea is also a bacterial infection of your genital tract. The bacteria can also grow in your mouth, throat, eyes, and anus. The first gonorrhea symptoms generally appear within ten days after exposure. However, some people may be infected for months before signs or symptoms occur.
Signs and symptoms of gonorrhea may include:
- Thick, cloudy, or bloody discharge from the penis or vagina
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Painful, swollen testicles
- Painful bowel movements
- Anal itching
We Value Your Privacy
All of our services are totally confidential. We want you to get the information you need about your pregnancy. We don’t report anything to other individuals, state agencies, or your insurance.
Don’t wait. Schedule an appointment to get tested today.
