For those wondering whether they have an STD, the waiting game can be agonizing. Luckily, there are community resources available that offer low-cost or even free STD testing. This is not only convenient but can give you peace of mind.
AscentCare offers STD testing for pregnant women who have received a positive test. We test for two of the most common STDs, chlamydia and gonorrhea. This service is free, and we’ll provide the necessary treatment if you test positive.
Besides receiving adequate treatment, there are several reasons why you should consider receiving free STD testing:
1. STD Testing Can Be Costly
If you don’t have health insurance, you can expect to pay a lot of money for STD testing, which can add up over time. Typically, for patients who don’t have health insurance, STD testing at a doctor’s office can cost $50-200 for each test. You can expect a $10-30 copay per test, even with insurance.
Accessing free STD testing isn’t just cost-effective; it’s smart. Saving money any way you can is helpful in the long run.
2. Avoid Long-Term Complications
Besides the short-term complications and side effects of having an STD, if you leave one untreated, you can expect to experience some unpleasant and dangerous complications.
One complication is pelvic inflammatory disease, also known as PID. PID can be caused by chlamydia and gonorrhea; without proper treatment, it can leave scar tissue in the reproductive tract and cause problems like infertility, which may be challenging to treat.
Though PID only occurs in women, men can suffer from problems related to untreated STDs as well, such as infertility and discomfort or pain during intercourse. Both men and women should take advantage of STD testing regularly.
3. Protect Others
Though many STDs have uncomfortable and even painful symptoms, some do not. This is dangerous for you and whomever you engage in sexual activity with. You may not know you have an STD until it has been passed to your partner.
As STDs can be spread through sexual contact and even bodily fluids, getting tested is the best way to ensure you are disease-free and are not spreading diseases to sexual partners.
Free STD Testing
To learn more about AscentCare’s STD testing services for pregnant women, contact us to schedule an appointment. We’re here to answer any questions and help you get the care you need! We are a pregnancy care center near Plattsburg, NY.