STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. These were once called STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), but the term “infection” is now used because it more accurately reflects that someone can carry an infection without showing symptoms. Even without symptoms, a person can still spread an STI to others. Many STIs can also be treated or managed with proper care.
Anyone who has been sexually active can be at risk for an STI.
STIs occur when bacteria, viruses, or parasites are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. This can include vaginal, oral, or anal sex, as well as sharing sex toys or needles. Some infections can also spread through skin-to-skin contact. Even when symptoms aren’t present, STIs can impact reproductive health, be passed during childbirth, and affect overall well-being.
There are three main types of STIs:
- Bacterial STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, which can be treated and cured with medication
- Viral STIs, including herpes and HIV, which cannot be cured but can be managed
- Parasitic STIs, like scabies or pubic lice, which can be treated with medicated creams
At PAC in Forest Park, we offer free testing and treatment for two of the most common infections in our area—chlamydia and gonorrhea. Testing is done through a simple urine sample collected by a registered nurse and sent to a lab. Results and any necessary medication are typically available the following week, and a follow-up appointment will be scheduled during your visit.
Chlamydia and gonorrhea often show no symptoms* but can be easily treated when detected early. If left untreated, they may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.
At this time, our Forest Park location offers urine testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Other types of STI testing include:
- Swab tests to collect samples from the vagina, throat, or rectum
- Blood tests used to detect infections such as HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis
- Rapid HIV tests, which can provide results in minutes
- Visual exams or fluid samples used to identify conditions like herpes or genital warts
Because STIs take time to develop in the body, testing too soon after exposure may not provide accurate results. To schedule a urine STI test in Forest Park, contact our team today.
*If you are experiencing symptoms such as unusual discharge, painful urination, sores, swollen lymph nodes, body aches, or fever, please seek care from a physician right away.