Why STDs Matter Significantly to Women's Health
If you are sexually active with multiple partners, but you’re usually pretty careful, you may think sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening is unnecessary, especially if you have no symptoms. Please think again. Over 9 million women are diagnosed with an STD each year, and many more infections go undiagnosed and untreated. Women are often affected more significantly by STDs than men, and the impacts can be devastating.
A woman’s anatomy places her at a higher risk for contracting an STD, and statistics show that women are less likely than men to show symptoms of common STDs. However, women are also more prone to serious health complications because of untreated infections.
As a result of untreated STDs, some women suffer from pelvic inflammatory disease, which can result in infertility or higher risk of ectopic pregnancy. Human papillomavirus, the most common STD affecting women, is also the main cause of cervical cancer.
Unfortunately, cases of syphilis are on the rise in the United States, and this disease is not only affecting women, but when left untreated in pregnant women, it is also being passed to infants at birth. Studies show that 9/10 cases of newborn syphilis may have been prevented with timely testing and treatment during a woman’s pregnancy.
Some STDs can be cured using prescription medication. However, HIV, genital herpes, hepatitis B, and some strains of HPV are incurable diseases. Symptoms can be treated and minimized, but the body can never fully eradicate these infections.
How can you protect yourself from these concerning outcomes?
According to the CDC, abstaining from sex is the only 100% effective way to prevent STDs. Saying no to all forms of sex—vaginal, oral, and anal—is your prerogative and is the best option outside of a committed, long-term relationship.
Sexual activity within a monogamous relationship where both partners are committed to this boundary is the next best option to keep your body, mind, and spirit healthy.
Condoms may prevent the spread of STDs, but repeated studies indicate they are not 100% effective or reliable, especially when living a lifestyle with high sexual health risks.
Routine STD testing is essential if you or your partner have had multiple sex partners.
If you are feeling uncertain about your current risks, past exposures, how to set boundaries in your current relationship(s), or would like a fresh start, we are here to help. Our expert medical staff won’t find your questions uncomfortable or awkward, and you will be welcomed for treatment without judgement.
Your health matters—physically, mentally, and spiritually. At Options, we are committed to walking with you on your journey to optimal sexual health. Call 406-422-1011 to schedule an appointment today, or request an appointment here.