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Woman's New Life Clinic

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This girl is thinking about 3 things you should know before ordering the abortion pill online.

April 27, 2021

Why Do I Need an STD Test Prior to Abortion?

What is an STD/STI?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), now medically referred to as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are contracted through genital, oral, or anal sex with an infected individual.

Unfortunately, STDs are very common, infecting 50% of sexually active individuals by the age of 25.

  • Some common STDs include:
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Syphilis
  • Bacterial Vaginosis
  • Trichomoniasis
  • Genital Warts (HPV)
  • HIV
  • Hepatitis B
  • Genital Herpes (HSV)

Because STDs are extremely common, all sexually active individuals should be tested on a routine basis.

Why do I need an STD test prior to abortion?

If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, being tested for an STD is an essential step in ensuring your safety and maintained health.

Having an abortion while infected with an STD can cause the infection to spread to other parts of your body, potentially causing sepsis and septic shock. Additionally, women with STDs have an increased risk of ectopic pregnancies.
How soon after sex should I get tested for an STD?

If you are sexually active, it would be wise to make STD testing a part of your regular medical checkup routine.

If you think you’ve recently been exposed, getting tested sooner rather than later is a key step in staying healthy. Because every STD has a different period of incubation, it can be tricky to know when to get tested. Visit your local pregnancy clinic to chat with a medical professional to find out when you should be tested to get the most reliable results.

Can I have an STD without symptoms?

Some STDs can be present for years without presenting any symptoms, which means you or one of your partners could unknowingly be spreading the infection to others. Unfortunately, when STDs are left untreated, they may result in some long-term health issues.

What are the long-term consequences of STDs?

If you think you may have been exposed to an STD, stop sexual activity immediately, seek testing, and get treated as soon as possible. Untreated STDs can be spread to others and lead to a variety of severe health issues.

Untreated syphilis can lead to damage to internal organs, paralysis, and death. HPV causes contagious warts and can lead to cervical cancer. Gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which can cause chronic pain and fertility issues. Hepatitis B, a viral liver disease, can result in cancer in the liver and HIV can cause AIDS, which can be fatal.

How can I prevent STDs?

While many people consider the use of condoms as a safeguard from STDs, the only way to fully protect yourself from infection is to abstain from having sex until you are in a committed, monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.

Where can I get tested for an STD?

Getting tested for an STD can be an intimidating process. However, it’s important to remember that it’s a very normal and responsible step to staying healthy and informed!

Finding reliable, affordable, and confidential STD testing is as easy as setting up an appointment with your local pregnancy clinic! To schedule an appointment or inquire about pricing, call Woman’s New Life Clinic in our New Orleans or Baton Rouge locations.

Call us today in New Orleans: 504-496-0214
Call us today in Baton Rouge: 225-663-6470