You never want to think about the possibility of getting sick. It’s never fun to feel unwell, but it can cause anxiety if you aren’t sure what is causing your symptoms. That is certainly true when it comes to STDs!

Sexually transmitted diseases can not only make you feel uncomfortable, but they can have a significant impact on your health later in life if they aren’t treated properly.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hickory team wants you to stay as healthy as possible, so read on as we explain the benefits of testing for and treating STDs early.

Will STD Symptoms Appear Immediately?

There are over 20 different kinds of STDs, and each one has the potential to act differently for each person. Some STDs can produce symptoms a couple of days after the exposure while others can exist for days or months without causing any symptoms whatsoever.

Routine testing is one of the key parts of STD prevention. If you are sexually active and test often, you can catch an emerging situation before you have the chance to spread it on. Thankfully, you can come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hickory for an STD test.

STD Symptoms

• Burning with urination
• Abnormal discharge
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Itching or general discomfort

What STDs Are Common?

We can test for any of the 20+ STDs, but some are certainly more common than others. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HPV are all tests that we commonly run. If you stop by our center for a rapid test, we will get a quick health history and then either collect a blood sample, urine sample or swab and run it through our lab.

If any of the tests come back positive, it’s OK! That’s what we are here for. We will prescribe the right treatment for you to help get you back on track. Early treatment is crucial for preventing serious issues later in life like fertility troubles and pregnancy complications. Untreated STDs can scar your reproductive organs and make it much more difficult to get pregnant.

Prioritizing Your Health

• Test frequently/before a new relationship, even if you have no symptoms.
• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV.
• Communicate any diagnoses with partner.
• Always wear a condom.

We are always here for you. Stop by for an STD test today at AFC Urgent Care Hickory.