Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Why do I need to to know about STD/STI's?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections that are transferred from person to person through sexual contact, such as orally, anally, or vaginally. If you’ve had unprotected sex, not only could you be pregnant, but you could also have an STI.
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatment are critical if you are considering an abortion because chlamydia, the most common STI in the US, rarely has symptoms. Studies have demonstrated that 70-95% of women and 90% of men who have chlamydia do not realize that they have it. Women who have an untreated STI (like chlamydia or gonorrhea) are up to 23% more likely to develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) following an abortion procedure.
Always Free, Always Caring,
Always Confidential
How can I avoid getting an STI?
- Further sexual contact (oral, anal, vaginal) could make any negative STI results invalid.
- Condoms may help reduce the risk of an STI if used consistently and correctly each and every time. However, they cannot provide 100% protection from an STI.
- Choosing to avoid sexual contact is the only 100% way to prevent an STI. We recommend committing NOW to waiting to have sex until you’re in a long-term, mutually committed relationship (such as marriage).
- If you are in a position where you believe that saying “no” to sex will result in violence or loss of basic needs, you are not in a safe situation. Please contact us, the National Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888), or the Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233).
How can I avoid getting an STI?
- Further sexual contact (oral, anal, vaginal) could make any negative STI results invalid.
- Condoms may help reduce the risk of an STI if used consistently and correctly each and every time. However, they cannot provide 100% protection from an STI.
- Choosing to avoid sexual contact is the only 100% way to prevent an STI. We recommend committing NOW to waiting to have sex until you’re in a long-term, mutually committed relationship (such as marriage).
If you are in a position where you believe that saying “no” to sex will result in violence or loss of basic needs, you are not in a safe situation. Please contact us, the National Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888), or the Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233).
Insight Women’s Center does not offer, recommend, or refer for abortions. We share accurate information about sexually transmitted infections, abortion procedures, and risks, empowering you to make the best choice for you.
Additional Questions You Might Have?
The most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States are HPV, human papillomavirus, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Genital herpes, HIV, syphilis, etc. trichomoniasis. Most all STD’s are treatable. However, it’s vital to catch these infections early to minimize side effects and health issues.
Yes. Many STI’s have very mild symptoms or present with no symptoms at all. Symptoms of common STIs can mirror other health conditions, or you may experience only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. If left undiagnosed and untreated, STIs can have serious health consequences, notably increased risk for HIV transmission and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can lead to permanent damage to the reproductive system, infertility, and/or life-threatening ectopic pregnancy.
Now more than ever, it’s vital to have the difficult conversations with your significant other, use condoms correctly, and receive regular STI screening if you are in an active sexual relationship. We recommend committing NOW to waiting to have sex until you’re in a long-term, mutually committed relationship (such as marriage).
“They are kind and compassionate. IWC staff was able to answer all questions and give information about all options available. They listened and didn’t judge. Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, etc., are all free.”
“Thank you for making this easy. It definitely calmed my nerves, and I feel very supported.”
“The women I met with at IWC helped me realize that even though life provides a twist and turn, there is still hope, and I can still achieve my goals.”
“They are kind and compassionate. IWC staff was able to answer all questions and give information about all options available. They listened and didn’t judge. Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, etc., are all free.”
“Thank you for making this easy. It definitely calmed my nerves, and I feel very supported.”
“The women I met with at IWC helped me realize that even though life provides a twist and turn, there is still hope, and I can still achieve my goals.”
