If you’re sexually active, even if you only have one partner, you are at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). A Hope Center provides free testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea in Fort Wayne and Columbia City. These tests are provided only for women who take a free pregnancy test at our centers or mobile medical unit.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases are prevalent. It’s estimated that one in two sexually active young people will contract an STD by the age of 25 and likely won’t realize it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that youth ages 15-24 account for half of the 20 million new sexually transmitted diseases/infections in the United States each year. Also, one in four sexually active adolescent females has an STD.
How Do I Know If I Have an STD?
Anyone sexually active has the risk of contracting an STD. Some STDs have no noticeable symptoms. However, you do not have to have symptoms to be contagious; you can spread the disease at any time and not even know it.
Some STDs are easy to treat and cure when detected early. Left untreated, STDs can lead to more significant complications later, such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), infertility, and even cancer.
Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Testing
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are sexually transmitted diseases transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Chlamydia is the most frequently reported STD in the United States. Gonorrhea is caused by bacteria that can grow in the mouth, eyes, throat, and anus. Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can both be treated with antibiotics. If you are sexually active, be sure to get tested! A Hope Center offers free Chlamydia and Gonorrhea testing for women.
Become Sexually Healthy
A Hope Center offers free nurse-administered STD testing in conjunction with a free pregnancy test. If your test is positive, the Allen County Department of Health will offer treatment. Many STDs are curable. If you have had one in the past, you can get it again. Contact A Hope Center today to schedule an appointment for free STD testing.
This program is partially supported by a grant from the St. Joseph Community Health Foundation.