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STD & STI Testing & Treatment

STD Facts & Figures

  • The CDC estimates that roughly 3.7 million new cases of Chlamydia are diagnosed every year.
  • Approximately 1 in 5 men are infected with Genital Herpes in the US.
  • While there is a cure for Syphilis, it can lead to serious health issues and even death if left untreated.

Discreet STD & STI Testing & Treatment

For Intown Primary Care, confidentiality is one of our top priorities. We encourage testing for sexually transmitted diseases including, but not limited to: HIV, Herpes types 1 & 2, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and Genital Warts (HPV).

Common STDs & STIs

Human Papillomavirus Infection (HPV)

HPV is spread by vaginal, anal or oral sex and is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. HPV vaccines can help prevent some HPV health effects. HPV can cause cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, cancer of the vulva, penis or anus. It can also cause oropharyngeal cancer (cancer in the back of the throat).

Gardasil®9 is a vaccine that helps protect against human papillomavirus (HPV). It is used to treat both male and female patients and is the only HPV vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for protection against nine different types of HPV. Gardasil®9 is most effective in preventing infection from the types of HPV that cause the majority of cervical cancers and genital warts. It is recommended for all individuals between the ages of 9 and 26, but can be given to adults up to age 45. 

The vaccine is given as three injections over a six-month period. Gardasil®9 has been found to be effective in preventing the majority of cervical cancers and genital warts caused by HPV. In addition, it has been found to reduce the risk of precancerous lesions up to 90%. It can also be used in combination with other treatments such as surgery or chemotherapy for advanced stages of cancer. 

Gardasil®9 is generally well tolerated and side effects are usually mild. Common side effects include soreness, redness, and swelling at the injection site. Additionally, some patients may experience nausea, dizziness, headache, and fatigue after administration of the vaccine. 

It is important to note that Gardasil®9 does not protect against all types of HPV and patients should still get regular screenings for cervical cancer even after receiving the vaccine. Furthermore, it is not a substitute for regular testing or treatment of HPV-related cancers. 

We recommend that Gardasil®9 be a part of any comprehensive approach to sexual health care.

Genital Herpes

Genital Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Genital herpes is commonly spread via sexual contact and after initial infection, will lie dormant in your body and can reactivate several times per year. There is no cure for genital herpes but medications can ease the duration and severity of symptoms.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common STD affecting both women and men. Untreated Chlamydia can cause severe pregnancy complications, fatal ectopic pregnancy, or damage to a woman’s reproductive system that makes it difficult to get pregnant in the future.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection in the genitals, rectum, or throat and can cause infertility if left untreated. This infection is especially common among sexually active individuals and young people between the ages of 15-24.

HIV/AIDS

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) if left untreated, which interferes your body’s ability to fight infections. If left untreated, HIV and AIDS can lead to severe illness and death. Modern treatments can prevent these outcomes and allow patients to live a full and healthy life.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that typically spreads by sexual contact. Syphilis may start as a sore or rash, and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Hepatitis A & B

Hepatitis A & B are rare, but are highly contagious liver infections. Hepatitis A can spread through contaminated food and water, or through physical contact with someone who is infected. Hepatitis A typically produces symptoms for 2-3 months, but often goes away on its own. 

Hepatitis B is most commonly spread through exposure to infected body fluids. Hepatitis B is sometimes treatable; however, there are situations when the infection can lead to chronic Hepatitis B. 

There are vaccines available for both Hep A & Hep B, which we highly recommended for increased protection.

Hepatitis C

Like Hepatitis A & B, Hep C attacks the liver and leads to inflammation. It is spread by contact with contaminated blood, such as through sharing needles, sharing intimate items, or from improperly sanitized tattoo equipment. There is no current vaccine for Hepatitis C; however, it can be treated with antiviral medications and some newer medications may be able to completely eradicate the virus.

STD & STI Testing & Treatment - Key Sections

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