STD

What used to be called STD is now called STI, Sexually Transmitted Infections, because these are infections that need to be tested and treated. Testing is recommended for people who are sexually active. Since some STI’s do not have symptoms, it’s important to be periodically tested. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that sexually active people between 13 and 64 be tested at least once for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). HIV is the virus which causes AIDS. HIV tests are done by having your blood drawn. For women under 25 and those with risks, the CDC suggests annual screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea. These are collected during a pelvic exam with the speculum, a cotton tip like swab is used to wipe around the cervix then sent to the lab for testing. The CDC also recommends routine screening during pregnancy for syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV. STI treatment varies, according to the infection. Some can be treated and cured with antibiotics, while infections that can’t be cured require counselling from your provider and ongoing management.