What is a stI?
A sexually transmitted infection (also known as an STD) is a virus, infection, parasite, or fungus that individuals can get through sexual contact. If you are sexually active, you risk contracting and passing on an STI.
You can get an STI through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The following people are more susceptible to getting STIs:
- Young people aged 15-24
- Pregnant women
- Certain minority groups
More than 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis were reported nationwide in 2021.
In Colorado (per the latest reports available), there were 410 new diagnoses of HIV in 2021 and 38,533 new STI infections diagnosed in 2022.
Why Do I Need STI Testing If I Don’t Have Symptoms?
No one wants to think about having an STI. After all, that only happens to other people, and it’s embarrassing to talk about your sex life. However, if you are sexually active, you should receive regular screening for STIs.
Up to 70% of STIs have no signs or symptoms (they’re asymptomatic), and in fact, the #1 symptom of STIs is no symptoms at all. Because there may be no symptoms, people put off getting tested.
If left untreated, STIs can cause the following:
- Increased risk of giving or getting HIV
- Long-term pelvic/abdominal pain
- Inability to get pregnant or pregnancy complications
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
From 2018 to 2023, cases of congenital syphilis increased more than seven times (from 7 cases to 50 cases). Because of this, if you are pregnant, a comprehensive STI testing panel should be performed at your first prenatal visit.
What Does Alpha Center Test For?
STIs are very common. The good news is they are also preventable, and most are curable. We give our patients the best care possible. Our nurses screen for the following STIs:
- HIV
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
Who Does Alpha Center provide sti Testing for?
Both men and women can make an appointment at Alpha Center for STI testing. We offer routine STI screening and treatment at no cost to you up to twice per year. We also offer testing for partners of those who have had a positive test result, and tests for re-infection.
As we offer our services at no cost, your insurance is not billed, and testing is completely confidential. Please note:
- We require your ID to create your patient chart and verify your identity. This information is not shared outside of our office.
- If you are a part of the Banner Health System, your results can appear in your patient file.
What Does Alpha Center Treat?
Currently, Alpha Center treats chlamydia for free. We will provide the necessary paperwork and referrals for further evaluation and treatment of other STIs if you receive a positive result for gonorrhea, HIV, or syphilis.
What Should I Expect At My Appointment?
Your appointment will last approximately 45 minutes so we can provide proper screening and you will meet with one of our registered nurses. You are required to schedule an appointment for STI testing. Please call 970-239-2272 to set up a time.
Sources:
