Common STI Myths and Facts You Should Know

STI testing can be easy to postpone when nothing feels wrong. But reproductive health is not always something you can judge by symptoms alone.

Some common beliefs about sexually transmitted infections can leave important questions unanswered. Learning the facts can help you understand when testing may be appropriate and why early detection matters.

First Care offers free, confidential STI testing at most locations. Same-day appointments may be available.

Myth: You Would Notice an STI

Some STIs can cause burning, unusual discharge, itching, sores, or pelvic discomfort. Others may cause mild symptoms or none at all.

The CDC explains that someone can have an infection without knowing it. Feeling healthy does not necessarily mean an STI is absent. Testing is the only way to know your current status.

Myth: An Untreated STI Will Not Affect Future Fertility

Certain untreated infections can move into the reproductive organs and lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two infections associated with this condition.

PID can cause chronic pelvic pain and scarring in the fallopian tubes. In some cases, that damage may make it more difficult to become pregnant or increase the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy.

Testing can identify an infection before lasting reproductive health problems develop.

Myth: A Pregnancy Test or Pap Smear Includes STI Testing

These tests serve different purposes.

A pregnancy test detects human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG, a hormone produced by the placenta. During early pregnancy, hCG signals the body to produce progesterone and estrogen, which help maintain the uterine lining and support the developing pregnancy. A pregnancy test does not check for an STI.

A Pap test examines cervical cells for changes that could develop into cervical cancer, including Human Papillomavirus, or HPV. Although a Pap test may occasionally identify signs of inflammation or infection, it is not a substitute for STI testing.

Separate samples, such as urine, blood, or swabs, may be needed depending on which infections are being checked.

Myth: STI Testing Does Not Matter During Pregnancy

STI testing remains a critical part of prenatal care. Some infections can affect a woman’s health during pregnancy and may be passed to her baby.

For this reason, the CDC recommends testing for certain infections as part of prenatal care. The recommended tests and timing depend on your health history and other medical factors.

Take Care of Your Reproductive Health

STI testing provides information that symptoms, a pregnancy test, or a routine Pap smear cannot.

First Care offers free and confidential STI testing at select locations. Schedule an appointment online or contact First Care to ask about availability. Same-day appointments may be available.