IMPORTANCE OF STI TESTING

An important free service is offered at Care Net Pregnancy Center of ABQ; that of STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) screening and treatment. According to the Center for Disease Control, there are nearly 2 million new STI cases every year. At Care Net, we are concerned with this number because 50% of new STIs are among 15-24-year-olds. STIs usually affect women harder than men. This is a significant problem affecting women in their early childbearing years.

What is an STI?                                                                                                                                       

It is an infection passed from one person to another during intimate physical contact. This sexual contact includes the vagina, the mouth, or the anus. Even touching genitals can pass a sexually transmitted infection. Often the people have mild or no symptoms and do not know they are infected.

What are the symptoms?                                                                                                                        

Small warts, sores in the genital region, rashes, or discharge are some of the pieces of evidence of an STI.  Most of the infections passed from partner to partner do not have symptoms. These infections can cause scarring which later prevents women from having a child.  Sexually active girls and boys should request STI testing. Care Net tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea.  Chlamydia is an infection that may not have symptoms.  Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection. Left untreated, both Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. PID symptoms include pain in your lower belly and pelvic region, a heavy, smelly discharge from the vagina, bleeding between periods, pain during sex, fever and chills, and pain or difficulty peeing. A potential complication is the inability to get pregnant or an ectopic pregnancy which is life-threatening to women.

How Do We Test for STIs? 

After signing a document giving permission to be screened for STIs, a urine sample is given.  Return for results in 3 to 5 days.

How Are STIs Treated?    

These STIs can be effectively treated by taking antibiotics. An onsite medical provider will call the medication into a local pharmacy. Retesting in 6-8 weeks is recommended.

Free testing of STIs at Care Net Pregnancy Center of ABQ is a way to serve our community.