Why STDs Testing Is Important

Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are more common than you think. It’s estimated that 376 million people will be diagnosed with an STD every year.  And, yet, STD testing isn’t a commonplace discussion topic. Maybe it’s because of the sensitive subject, or perhaps it’s because not many are educated on the importance of being tested for these infections. 

So, it’s important to think about receiving regular STD testing at your next gynecology visit, especially if it’s been a few years since your last test. If you’re not sure why, the experts at Covington Women’s Health are discussing why STDs testing is important and answering some of the most common questions about this subject. 

How Do You Get an STD? 

Anytime you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex, you are at risk of being exposed to an STD. While it’s less common to receive an STD from a life-long partner than if your lifestyle involves multiple sexual encounters, it can still occur. Even if you use protection, sometimes the exposure can still occur, especially concerning the virus that causes most cervical cancers, Human Papilloma Virus or HPV. 

Knowing this, you can see why it’s vital to stay on top of receiving regular STD testing. Even if you’re fine this year, something could change next year, especially if you have unprotected sex with someone new. 

Silent Symptoms 

Whether or not you suspect you have an STD is important, but it’s even more important to know is that sometimes STDs will not cause any symptoms at all. It may take many years for symptoms to first show up and, by that time, the disease has been living in your body and potentially causing damage. Some infections can damage your fallopian tubes and cause infertility. 

That’s why it’s better safe than sorry when it comes to STD testing. 

Consequences that Build Up

Unfortunately, STDs can do a lot of damage if left untreated, as mentioned above. Depending on the type you have, medical issues such as increased risk in infertility, weakened immune system, cancer, and more are all possibilities if STDs go untreated. 

And if you have an STD, you could be spreading that disease and potentially doing a lot of harm to those you come in contact with. 

Do the responsible thing and receive regular checking, for your benefit and the benefit of others.  

When Should I Get STD Testing Done?

The answer to this question depends on how sexually active you are. 

  • If you are very sexually active with multiple partners, consider receiving testing every few months. 
  • If you aren’t sexually active or are sexually active with only one person, still plan to receive testing every year, just to be sure. 

The best thing about STD testing is that it’s quick, easy, and painless! Many times all it involves is a swab and blood test while you’re getting your exam at your gynecologists’ office. 

If you have any further questions about STDs testing, reach out to the experts at Covington Women’s Health Specialists. Contact us by clicking here or by giving us a call at 770-385-8954. 

What is Endometriosis?

Despite being a very common medical issue, many people have not heard of endometriosis. Yet, more than 200,000 women in the United States have it every year. This disorder occurs when the tissue that normally lines the inside of a uterus grows on the outside of the uterus, in other areas of the lower abdomen and on the ovaries, causing extreme pain for the women who experience it. 

“Endometriosis can cause many issues down the road,” Covington Women’s Health Specialist, Dr. Cathy Larrimore explained. “During a normal menstrual cycle, the lining of tissue in your uterus thickens, breaks down, and then leaves the body during the period. However, since the tissue in endometriosis has nowhere to go, it becomes trapped and causes cysts, scar tissue, adhesions, and even fertility problems.” 

Want to learn more about endometriosis? The experts at Covington Women’s Health Specialists explain the basics of this medical disorder below. 

What Causes Endometriosis?

Unfortunately, the exact cause of endometriosis is not known. However, here are some of the possible reasons many scientists and doctors are currently speculating. 

Retrograde Menstruation

This is one of the most commonly believed theories. In this process, menstrual blood with endometrial cells goes back through the fallopian tubes instead of out of the body. This could possibly be what triggers the tissue to grow outside of the uterus. 

Peritoneal Cells

The peritoneum covers the organs inside the body.  Possibly because of hormones or other immune factors, peritoneal cells may turn into endometrial-like cells throughout puberty. This means the cells that are lining the abdomen turn into cells that should be lining your uterus and will breakdown and bleed during your period.

Endometrial Cell Transport

Similar to the above, hormones could be causing our embryonic cells to transform into endometrial-like cells. Since embryonic cells are the cells in our bodies at the earliest stages of development, this can later trigger tissues to grow where it shouldn’t. 

Immune System Disorders

If an immune system is compromised and not working as it should be, the body could not be recognizing tissue that is growing outside of the uterus. Normally, the immune system would see it and destroy any unnecessary tissues. 

Surgical Scar Implantation 

Sometimes, after a major surgery like a hysterectomy or even a C-section, the incision that is left behind can trigger unwanted cells to attach. If the excess endometrial-like cells grow here, that could certainly cause endometriosis. 

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

  • Painful periods 
  • Excessive bleeding, during and between periods
  • Pain with bowel movements and/or urinating 
  • Infertility struggles 
  • Pain during intercourse. 

Common Treatment Options

  • Pain medications such as ibuprofen
  • Hormonal releasing devices
  • Hormonal birth control medications
  • Hormone therapy 
  • Surgery, such as laparoscopy or even hysterectomy

If you have these symptoms, you should see a gynecologist.  If you are diagnosed with endometriosis or are suspected of having it, it’s important to understand that what may work for some women may not work for you, so speak with your physician to discuss what treatment options will be best for your symptoms and health conditions. 

If you have any further questions about endometriosis, reach out to the experts at Covington Women’s Health Specialists. Contact us by clicking here or by giving us a call at 770-385-8954.