So you had sex without a condom a few weeks ago, but haven’t experienced any STD symptoms. Before doing your “I am in the clear!” dance and celebrating, consider the following facts about STDs.
- The most common STD symptom is having no symptom at all. STDs can live in your body for weeks, months, and even years without ever showing any symptoms. For example, Chlamydia is sometimes called the “Silent Epidemic” because it can cause so much damage in your body without ever showing a symptom.
- STDs get worse over time. Many STDs can be cleared up with antibiotics, and you can even get the vaccine “Gardasil” to protect against strains of cancer associated with HPV (genital warts). However, if STDs are left untreated they can cause blindness, infertility, or even death.
- Getting tested is as easy as 1-2-3. Literally. All you have to do is:
- Find a clinic
- Make an appointment
- Get tested.
If you are at least 12 years old, you can get tested without your parents’ permission. Testing is safe and it is confidential. No one but you has to know your results.