When it comes to maintaining your health, STD/STI testing is a crucial part of the equation. At Proper Health and Wellness in Pembroke Pines, FL, we provide confidential, professional STD testing to help you stay safe and healthy. Here’s what you need to know about STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections), and why testing is so important.

What is an STD or STI?

An STD or STI is an infection passed through sexual contact, which includes vaginal, oral, or anal sex. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a key difference:

• STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection): The infection is present but may not have developed into a disease yet.

• STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease): The infection has progressed to cause symptoms or damage to the body.

Some of the most common STDs include:

1. Chlamydia – A bacterial infection that often presents no symptoms but can cause serious health problems if untreated.

2. Gonorrhea – Commonly paired with Chlamydia, this bacterial infection can lead to complications like infertility if left untreated.

3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – A common virus that can cause genital warts and even cancers.

4. Herpes – A viral infection that causes painful sores around the mouth or genitals.

5. HIV/AIDS – A virus that attacks the immune system, potentially leading to life-threatening infections if not managed properly.

6. Syphilis – A bacterial infection that can damage the heart, brain, and other organs if not treated.

   
   

Who Should Get Tested?

If you’re sexually active, regular STD testing is essential. You should especially consider getting tested if you:

• Have multiple sexual partners

• Engage in unprotected sex

• Are unsure of your partner’s STD status

• Share needles or syringes (for drug use)

• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant

Remember, many STDs don’t show symptoms, so the only way to know your status is to get tested.

How Often Should You Get Tested?

How often you should get tested depends on your lifestyle and risk factors. Here are some general guidelines:

• Yearly testing: Recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those with new or multiple partners.

• Every 3-6 months: If you engage in higher-risk behaviors like unprotected sex with multiple partners.

• At least once: The CDC recommends that everyone should be tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime. For more detailed guidelines, visit the CDC's website here.

  
  

Get Tested at Proper Health and Wellness in Pembroke Pines, FL

At Proper Health and Wellness, we offer confidential STD testing to ensure you and your partner(s) stay informed about your sexual health. Don’t wait until you have symptoms—many STDs are silent but can lead to serious complications if untreated. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier you!