Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can have serious and long-lasting effects on a person’s health and well-being. It is important to get evaluated and treated for STDs as soon as possible to prevent complications and reduce the risk of transmission to others. Regular testing can also help identify STDs before they become symptomatic, allowing for earlier treatment and prevention of further complications.
Untreated STDs can lead to serious health problems, including infertility, chronic pain, and even cancer. For example, untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Additionally, untreated syphilis can cause serious complications such as blindness, dementia, and death. Prompt treatment can prevent or minimize these potential complications.
Getting evaluated and treated for STDs is not only important for your own health, but also for the health of your sexual partners. Many STDs can be transmitted without showing any symptoms, and people may not even realize they are infected. By getting tested regularly and treating any infections, individuals can reduce the risk of transmission to others and help prevent the spread of STDs in their communities.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/
- World Health Organization. (2019). Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/sexually-transmitted-infections-(stis)