More than half of women are skipping screenings for STDs because they aren’t displaying symptoms. Sleeper STDs that women should get screened for on a yearly basis include the following:
CHLAMYDIA
According to the CDC, less than 5 percent of women with chlamydia display symptoms.
In fact, even the women who do display symptoms often brush off symptoms because they are so non-specific. Some symptoms include increased vaginal discharge or burning. Though chlamydia is curable, if it is left untreated for an extended period of time, it can cause problems in your uterus and fallopian tubes. It can also cause your body to create scar tissue, which leads to pelvic inflammatory disease.
HPV
HPV has become one of the most rampant STDs in the United States in recent years.
Though HPV can cure itself in time, it can also drastically increase your chance of getting genital warts and, in extreme cases, cervical cancer. HPV can be detected with an abnormal pap smear.
GONORRHEA
According to the CDC, less than 50 percent of women display symptoms for gonorrhea.
If symptoms, such as frequent urination, abnormal discharge, abnormal vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain do occur, women often mistake them for bladder or vaginal infections. If left untreated, gonorrhea can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancies.
HERPES
Surprised to see this on the list? You’re not the only one.
Most women expect they would develop a rash or infection if they develop genital herpes. However, most cases are asymptomatic. There is no cure for herpes, but getting the issue under control early may prevent you from spreading it to sexual partners and may prevent future painful breakouts.
Contact the physicians at South Florida Women’s Care to get your routine STD screening.