From diagnosis to cure: how to get rid of an STI.

What does STI stand for?

STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. These are infections that can be transmitted through sexual activity, including vaginal, anal or oral sex. It's important to note that the term “STI” is often used interchangeably with “STD” (sexually transmitted disease).

STIs have been on the rise for the last decade. Nearly 1 in every 5 people is estimated to have an STI in the U.S. according to the CDC. The most common STIs are chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Symptoms of STIs.

Recognizing the symptoms of STIs is important for early detection and prompt treatment. While symptoms can vary depending on the specific infection, common signs include:

• Unusual discharge. Changes in genital discharge, such as color, consistency or odor.
• Pain or discomfort. Pain or discomfort generally occurs during urination or sexual activity.
• Sores, lesions or warts. Presence of sores, lesions or warts in the genital or anal area.
• Itching or irritation. Persistent itching or irritation in the genital or anal region.
• Flu-like symptoms. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue or swollen lymph nodes.

How to get rid of an STI.

Dealing with an STI can feel overwhelming, but rest assured, there are steps you can take to address and manage the situation. From diagnosis to treatment, let's explore the path to getting rid of an STI.

• Seek professional guidance. The first and most crucial step is to consult with a healthcare professional. CityMD offers confidential and expert care to assess your situation, provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
• Complete the prescribed treatment. If your healthcare provider prescribes medication, it is important to complete the full course as directed.
• Follow-up testing. After completing the prescribed treatment, follow-up testing is crucial to confirm that the infection has cleared. CityMD offers comprehensive testing services to monitor your progress and provide peace of mind.
• Inform your partner(s). Open and honest communication is key. Inform your sexual partner(s) about the situation so that they can also seek testing and treatment if necessary.
• Practice safe sex. Moving forward, consistently practicing safe sex is essential to prevent the transmission of STIs.
• Regular check-ups. Stay proactive about your sexual health by scheduling regular check-ups, even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms. CityMD provides confidential and convenient testing services to support your ongoing well-being.
• Educate yourself. Knowledge is empowering. Take the time to educate yourself about STIs, safe sex practices and preventive measures. CityMD provides resources and information to help you make informed decisions about your sexual health.

Urgent care STI testing at CityMD.

Getting tested for STIs is a responsible and proactive step in staying healthy. Urgent care STI testing offers several benefits:

• Confidentiality and privacy. Urgent care centers prioritize your confidentiality, providing a discreet environment for STI testing.
• Quick and convenient. Rapid testing options are available, providing quick results for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
• Comprehensive testing. Urgent care facilities like CityMD offer comprehensive STI testing, checking for a range of infections to ensure thorough and accurate results.
• Professional guidance. If diagnosed with an STI, urgent care professionals at CityMD can offer immediate guidance on treatment options and next steps.

Remember, early detection and treatment are key to managing and getting rid of an STI. If you suspect you may have been exposed, don't hesitate to seek STI testing at your neighborhood urgent care for your peace of mind and overall well-being.

CityMD is here to support you every step of the way.