STD Testing in Wasilla and Big Lake
Mat-Su Health Services offers many services for our patients including sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment.
What Do We Test For?
STDs can negatively affect your life if you don't act now. Here are some of the STDs we test for and how they affect your body.
HPV (human papillomavirus)
HPV, the most common STD, is a viral disease with over 100 different kinds of HPV. Most people get HPV at some point in their life, and it's usually harmless, but around a dozen strands of HPV may lead to cancer, and others lead to problems like genital warts. There is no cure, but some strains do go away on their own. Some strains of HPV are linked to cervical cancer and may require frequent PAP smears if detected.
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
HIV is a viral STD with serious physical, social, and emotional complications that can eventually turn into AIDS if left untreated. It weakens the immune system of the body (particularly T cells), which fights off illness. As the immune system weakens, the body fights every day to survive. Immediate treatment is important to ensure a healthy immune system. However, symptoms can mimic the common cold, so people are not too alarmed. Eventually, the symptoms may come back much worse. Symptoms can also include diarrhea, weight loss, and a severely increased number of illnesses. Luckily, medication can help keep the disease under control by preventing HIV from evolving into AIDs and promoting high T cell numbers.
A few misconceptions surround HIV/AIDS, which is why it is important to note that you cannot catch HIV by sharing drinks, holding hands, or coughing. However, it can be spread through sexual contact—more likely from unprotected than protected contact. Anyone with the disease should discuss the condition with their partner and talk to a doctor about how to stay safe while intimate.
HIV has come a long way since it was first discovered. Though there is currently no cure, people with HIV/AIDS can live long, productive lives with early detection and adequate antiretroviral treatment.
Herpes
Herpes, or HSV-2, is a viral STD. It is most recognized by outbreaks of sores around the genital area, but some people go their whole lives without showing symptoms. While there may not be a cure, medication can manage outbreaks and keep your partner safe. It's important to tell current and future partners about the diagnosis to give them the ability to protect themselves.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial STD. It may cause pain, vaginal discharge, and fever, but many people don't show symptoms. Left untreated, chlamydia can make it difficult for women to conceive and may cause joint pain. Treatment usually involves taking antibiotics. You can resume normal sexual activity roughly one week after taking antibiotics.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a bacterial STD. Patients may notice discharge, irregular bleeding, pain when urinating, and other pain in the abdominal and genital areas, but not every person shows symptoms. Left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to reproductive problems, problems urinating, and joint pain. Treatment involves taking antibiotics for a week before resuming normal sexual activity again.
At Mat-Su Health Services, we test for all known STDs. However, certain diseases require special testing. For that reason, it's important to let your nurse know if you need a particular test, to ensure you get it. In particular, mention if you require HIV testing.
STD Prevention
There are things you can do to keep yourself as safe as possible, but you need to think ahead. Protect yourself from the start by taking the following precautions.
Refrain from Sex
The least popular but most effective option is to refrain from having sex. However, most people want to express their love through totally normal natural desires. If you don't want to be celibate, then choosing monogamy and getting tested before starting a sexual relationship is an effective strategy as well.
Use Condoms
Use a condom when you start a new relationship with someone. You may wish to continue to use condoms throughout the relationship. Pick some up at our office during your next visit.
Get Vaccinated
There are vaccines now available to increase protection against HIV and HPV. There are several details about how they work and who can get them, so talk to your doctor to learn more. There are no vaccines for other diseases.
Importance of STD Testing
Unfortunately, too many men and women avoid getting tested for STDs. The topic can get uncomfortable, and most people don't like to think of themselves as unclean in that area in any way. However, we can't express enough how important it is for you to get tested frequently if you have different sexual partners. Make the appointment and verify you are healthy and safe.
Mat-Su Health Services
At Mat-Su Health Services, we offer comprehensive mental health and physical care for our community in Wasilla and Big Lake. Call today to make an appointment and take control of your physical health.
