Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major public health issue, particularly in Texas, where chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis continue to climb in frequency. Getting tested for STDs on a routine basis is not only a part of your own health priority list — but it’s also a responsible act to help keep your partner and the wider community safe. Here at Absolute Urgent Care, we stress the need for proactive testing to allow for early detection, effective treatment and prevention of most long-term health complications.
Why Regular STD Testing Matters
STDs are very easy to overlook because they can be asymptomatic. Chlamydia and gonorrhea, for example, can be asymptomatic for months and silently damage reproductive organs. The only way to detect these infections in their early stages is through regular testing, and to avert devastating complications such as infertility, chronic pain or an increased risk of HIV.
In a state like Texas, which may have variable access to healthcare, regular testing for STDs should be made a priority. Stigma, lack of awareness and fear of judgment keep many people from getting tested. But facilities such as Absolute Urgent Care offer a confidential, no judgment zone that helps make testing easy and crisis-mode free.
Protecting Your Partner’s Health
When it comes to sexual health, what you do really matters to your partner. Both people might suffer from undiagnosed STDs and transmit it unexpectedly, leading to severe health effects for both parties. Frequent testing means you aren’t exposing your partner to risk. That’s an accessible but impactful way of being able to demonstrate, in the relationships you find yourself in, the care that you are interacting with and what your responsibility is to it.
For couples in Texas — especially new or non-monogamous relationships — mutual testing can build trust and encourage open communication. Partners are encouraged to test together, so it becomes a joint commitment at Absolute Urgent Care.
Common STDs in Texas
The number of STDs has been steadily rising in Texas, and some are at higher rates than the national average. Here’s a breakdown of how common different STDs in the state:
- Chlamydia: the most commonly reported STD in Texas, often affecting young adults ages 15-24 If not treated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.
- Gonorrhea: Are known to have antibiotic-resistant strains, gonorrhea can result in serious reproductive health complications if treatment is not sought quickly.
- Syphilis: Texas has seen a rise in syphilis cases, including congenital syphilis. The sooner one is detected, the better, to avoid long-term damage to the heart, brain and other organs.
- HIV: Thanks to treatment, HIV is no longer an automatic death sentence, but you have to get tested in order to know you have it so you can live healthy.
When to Get Tested
STD testing is not the same for everyone and depends on your lifestyle, sexual activity and risk factors. Here are a few general guidelines:
- Sexually Active: Have testing at least once a year, even if using protection
- New Partners: Get tested before having sex with a new partner.
- Many Partners: Test every 3-6 months.
- Pregnant Women: Screen during pregnancy visits for mother and child safety.
We offer flexible testing to accommodate your schedule, including walk-in times and extended hours.
Overcoming the Stigma Around STD Testing
The STD-associated stigma is one of the main barriers to testing regularly. Many people feel embarrassed or ashamed, but remember that STDs are common and treatable. Normalizing testing as an aspect of routine healthcare delivery could alleviate this stigma.
Texas, where cultural and social elements may impact health care decisions, have clinics such as Absolute Urgent Care that endeavor to help foster a welcoming experience. “We all know that although the procedure may be simple, having a termination can be emotionally challenging, which is why our caring staff are trained to offer sensitive and non-judgmental care to make you feel as comfortable as possible”.
Testing Process: Quick, Easy, and Confidential
We at Absolute Urgent Care have simplified the entire testing process to cater to your needs in the most convenient way possible. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consult: Talk with a health care provider about your concerns and sexual history.
- Testing: Tests may vary — urine samples, blood draws and swabs may all be necessary, depending on your situation.
- Results: Get your results back quickly, often in a matter of days.
- Treatment: We offer treatment as necessary and follow-up care.
Role of Education and Prevention
While testing is an important aspect of the pandemic, so is prevention. By learning about safe sex and how to protect yourself as well as the risk of transmission when it comes to unprotected sex, you can help reduce your risk of developing an STD.
STD rates are on the rise and now is the time to spread the word. At Absolute Urgent Care, we are dedicated to providing you with information about sexually transmitted diseases, educating you about their symptoms, how you can protect yourself, and what you should do if you think you might be infected.
Take Control of Your Health Today
Getting tested regularly for STDs is a small action that can have a huge impact on your health, and the health of your partner. More Matter in Texas, where STD rates have been an increasing concern, this is particularly important.
Absolute Urgent Care is here to help you with anonymous, all-inclusive testing services. Don’t wait until you have symptoms—get your test today and take charge of your sexual health.
When you prioritize regular STD testing, you aren’t just protecting yourself; you’re helping to create a healthier Texas. It is important that you’re up-to-date with your medical information.
