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1. Why is it essential that we talk about STIs?
STIs have become increasingly important to discuss as cases continue to rise in the United States. Annual cases of gonorrhea and syphilis, for example, have increased year-over-year since 2017. To combat these numbers, we must spread awareness and encourage more people to get regularly tested for their safety and any partners they may have.
2. When people are tested, what are they typically screened for?
Some of the STIs people are frequently advised to screen for include gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, herpes and HIV. Many STIs have similar or no symptoms, so testing for various STIs at once is common.
3. Who should be tested?
STI testing is not just for individuals in their 20s or people of a particular gender or sexuality. Though certain groups may be at higher risk, anyone with new or multiple sexual partners should consider testing at least once every year. In addition, many STIs can be asymptomatic, so you may test positive and require treatment even without symptoms. For STD/STI testing recommendations from the CDC, check out: https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm.
4. What is the testing process like?
The method of testing can vary depending on the specific STI. Testing at a clinic, for example, may include a genital or anal swab, cheek or throat swab, blood test, urine test and a physical exam.
5. What happens if the results are positive for an STI?
Once a healthcare provider officially diagnoses you, most STIs are treatable with a prescribed antibiotic. STIs that are not curable with antibiotics, like herpes, can be managed with antiviral medication.
6. Does imaware have an STI test?
Currently, we do not have an STI test available in our online store, but hopefully, we'll have some exciting updates about that soon.
We do have a menu of kits available that provide screening in other health areas. Consider one of our Men's and Women's Health & Wellness tests for an easy at-home health check-up.
