Blog

Can STIs Go Away on Their Own?

If you’re sexually active, it's crucial to prioritize your health and get checked for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Many STIs do not clear up on their own and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.

Getting tested is the first step towards receiving the necessary treatment and maintaining your overall well-being. Regular testing helps you stay informed about your health status and prevents the potential spread of infections to others.

About STIs

A STI may pass from person to person in blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids. It can also spread through intravenous drug usage.

STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning they don’t always show signs. However, some of the symptoms you might experience include:

• Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area.

• Painful or burning urination.

• Discharge from the penis.

• Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge.

• Unusual vaginal bleeding.

• Pain during sex.

• Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin, but sometimes more widespread.

• Lower abdominal pain.

• Fever.

• Rash over the trunk, hands, or feet.

The Need For Testing

Avoiding STI testing poses serious risks to both you and your partner. If you’re pregnant, an STI can be transmitted to your baby during pregnancy or childbirth. Pregnancy does not protect against contracting sexually transmitted infections.

Untreated STIs in pregnant women can lead to complications such as miscarriage and premature birth. Other complications may not become apparent until months or even years later.

Here are some potential complications from an untreated STI:

• Pelvic pain.

• Pregnancy complications.

• Eye inflammation.

• Arthritis.

• Pelvic inflammatory disease.

• Infertility.

• Heart disease.

• Certain cancers, such as HPV-associated cervical and rectal cancers.

Get Testing And Treatment

Metro Women’s Care offers no-cost limited STI screenings and testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. Additionally, we provide treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea, as well as offer referrals if you need other treatment.

Make a confidential appointment in a non-judgmental environment. Visit us today.