What You Need to Know: April is STI Awareness Month

STD Awareness Week is in April and runs from the 9th through the 15th. This week is used to spread awareness and educate the general public about sexually transmitted diseases and infections.

Here's what you need to know:

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

BV results from an imbalance of “good” and “harmful” bacteria in a vagina. Douching, not using condoms, and having new or multiple sex partners can upset the balance of vaginal bacteria, increasing your risk of getting BV. Having Bacterial Vaginosis can also increase your chances of acquiring other STIs. A medical professional can treat this condition with antibiotics. Signs and symptoms include:

• A thin white or gray vaginal discharge,

• pain, itching, or burning in the vagina,

• a strong fish-like odor,

• burning when peeing, and

• itching around the outside of the vagina.

Chlamydia

Gonorrhea

Syphilis

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

Hepatitis C

Trichomoniasis

Genital Herpes

HPV - Human Papilloma Virus

Mycoplasma genitalium

Prevention

Abstinence is the only reliable way to prevent STDs/STIs. Condoms and contraceptives do not provide reliable prevention of infection. There are several vaccinations available that help prevent Hep B and HPV.

Testing

The Hope Clinic provides free STD testing, limited treatment, and education. The CDC recommends that, if you are not abstinent or monogamous, you get tested at least yearly and every three months if you have any risky behaviors. You can call 409-898-4005 today to schedule your free testing! Many STDs can be easily diagnosed and treated. If either you or your partner is infected, you must receive treatment simultaneously to avoid getting re-infected.

We test for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis C, HIV, and Syphilis at the Hope Clinic. Make an appointment today!

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Sources:

CDC (2023, January 31). Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm

CDC (2020, July 28). Viral Hepatitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/index.htm