It’s time to have the conversation. As uncomfortable as it may be, it’s important to be aware of what the CDC is reporting as a rising trend of STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, in the United States, with 2.5 million new reported cases. Once termed STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, the term changed decades ago, coinciding with a campaign by health officials to educate those who are sexually active. No matter your age, culture, or how you identify — if you are sexually active, it’s important to know the facts about the increased numbers of sexually transmitted infections for those who have unprotected sex.

The 411 About STIs

STIs are spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some of the most common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, human papillomavirus (HPV), genital herpes, and HIV.

Symptoms Are Problematic

In some cases, you may not even know you’ve been infected. You may be asymptomatic, or symptoms may go unnoticed until there are health complications or you get the news that a sexual partner has been diagnosed. The Mayo Clinic  says to look out for these symptoms that could indicate you have been infected through sexual transmission:

  • Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
  • Painful or burning urination
  • Discharge from the penis
  • Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Pain during sex
  • Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Rash over the trunk, hands, or feet

The difficulty in knowing whether or not you are infected is that symptoms may never appear, may appear years later, or a few days after exposure. The concern about STIs is that they can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Some STIs can cause infertility, chronic pain, and other long-term health problems. In addition, many STIs can be easily passed on to sexual partners, even when the infected person is not experiencing any symptoms. This means that people who have multiple sexual partners or who engage in unprotected sex are at an increased risk of contracting and spreading STIs.

The SUPERBUG STI

While some STIs can be treated and often cured with antibiotics, others are incurable and can only be managed with ongoing treatment. Additionally, scientists are now concerned about the emergence of STI “superbugs” that are resistant to commonly used antibiotics. According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, in the last five years, there has been a strain of gonorrhea that is resisting known antibiotic drug treatments. The World Health Organization says these superbugs could kill more than 10 million people annually by 2050 if new antibiotics aren’t developed. More reason to protect yourself.

Increasing Infections in the Senior Community

Another growing public health concern is the rising number of infections seen in the senior community. As we experience the largest population of older Americans, the baby boomers — officials are seeing a rising number of STIs in Americans aged 55+. In just under 10 years, officials have seen:

  • A 164% increase in gonorrhea
  • A 120% increase in syphilis
  • An 86% increase in chlamydia

Solving the STI Crisis

The solution is awareness and prevention. Being aware of the issue and taking steps to prevent the spread of STIs, like using condoms, is a powerful and effective first line of defense. Knowing your health status also means if you are diagnosed with an STI, early detection allows you to get the necessary treatment to control or cure the infection.

STI Screenings at Any Lab Test Now®

If you are sexually active, you should get tested regularly. At Any Lab Test Now®, we can help. We understand that this can be a sensitive subject for many. But when you come to Any Lab Test Now®, we respect your privacy and take the utmost discretion. We follow all HIPAA regulations, which provides you with the peace of mind that you will receive a high standard of care with complete confidentiality. Either we provide the doctor’s order for the lab test at no additional cost, or we accept your physician’s order. With our STI screenings, you get your results three to five business days after the lab receives your sample.

We offer a number of options for STI testing. A blood sample and a urine sample are required for the test. A vaginal swab (for females) may also be used.

BASIC STI/STD PANEL – If you think you’ve been exposed and want a basic overview of the most common STIs, this panel includes the following tests:

  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
  • RPR (Syphilis)
  • Herpes (HSV 1 & HSV 2)
  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia

STD/STI PANEL, COMPREHENSIVE – This panel is similar to the basic test but includes screening for hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

COMPREHENSIVE STI/STD PLUS – is our gold standard and is highly recommended to give you the most extensive and complete screening for STIs. This panel looks for HIV, syphilis, herpes (HSV1 & HSV 2), gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and trichomoniasis.

Take Control of Your Health

At Any Lab Test Now®, we provide clear, concise, and understandable results. You also have the option to glean additional information with our DialCare service. This allows you to consult with our provider about your results. The clarity you receive from a medical professional can affect the way you handle your health and can be life-saving.

Remember, at Any Lab Test Now®, the lab tests we provide are confidential, affordable, and convenient. You own the results, and you choose how to proceed with them, whether that means consulting with your provider for further details or perhaps the results give you the peace of mind you were seeking.

You can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to cover the costs of diagnostic lab work from Any Lab Test Now®. If you want to be regularly screened for STIs or have other health concerns, we have thousands of tests available to you, providing comprehensive health screenings that allow you to focus on your and your family’s health.

Remember, although STIs may be a sensitive issue, it’s important to convey this life-saving information to those you know and care about who may be affected. Utilizing our diagnostic lab testing will get you the answers you need. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.