The latest numbers from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services show that for gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia, we are on par to meet or even surpass last year’s rates — and that’s not a good thing.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs or STDs) climbed dramatically in 2018, a worrisome trend that doesn’t seem to be reversing. No one can point to just one reason for the increase in STDs. Likely contributing factors include:
- lower condom use among at-risk populations
- limited resources for public health initiatives focused on reducing STD rates
- more testing and better reporting;
- misunderstandings about how STDs are spread (one recent poll found a whopping 34 percent of respondents thought you could get an STD from a toilet seat!).
Another thing: It’s common to have gonorrhea or chlamydia and not have any symptoms (or to think that your symptoms mean something else, like a yeast infection). As a result, STDs can spread without people knowing.
We can help
At Maine Family Planning, we’re here to make sure our patients have peace of mind and all the information they need to stay sexually healthy.
Confidential, non-judgmental STD testing and treatment is available at MFP clinic (it’s easy to book an appointment online or by calling (207) 922-3222.
An appointment takes just 20-30 minutes. After a brief conversation about your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing, patients either pee in a cup or do a self-swab to get a sample that is then sent to a lab. (You don’t even need to get naked if you’re not having symptoms!)
Results are available in just a few days — and our expert clinicians are available to help you get treatment if necessary. Not only that, but MFP providers can help you inform recent sexual partners and expedite their testing and treatment.
So, if you’re worried you might be getting more out of sex than just a good time, call us today. Get tested. Get peace of mind.
