We know your sexual and reproductive health needs don’t go away because of a pandemic – and that’s okay. With rates of some Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) on the rise both nationally and in Maine, it’s important to get tested if you’re having symptoms or think you’ve been exposed.
With everything else that’s going on, the last thing you need to worry about is your sexual health status. That’s why MFP has started offering at-home testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea, which we hope will give Mainers more peace of mind while also minimizing contact between our patients and staff to help prevent transmission of Covid-19.
Both of these common and curable STIs are spread through sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) or genital contact and are super common among young people aged 15-24. Left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems in the future. Using condoms or dental dams can help prevent chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Call us today (207-922-3222) or visit www.mainefamilyplanning.org to set up a Virtual Visit to talk about your STI concerns with a compassionate MFP clinician. You don’t have to be an existing patient to use this service. We can see new and current patients using telehealth technology. We accept MaineCare and most forms of insurance; a sliding fee scale is also available. In Maine, teens can access STI testing and treatment confidentially, without notifying a parent or guardian.
A Virtual Visit lets you see an expert, non-judgmental provider without having to travel or leave home. It’s a lot like a regular in-person visit, just over video. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet access. You’ll log in and see your provider on the screen. They can confidentially discuss your concerns and symptoms and then get you an at-home test kit.
The home test is easy to use. During your confidential telehealth visit, we’ll review detailed instructions for urine collection or a home swab. Then, we’ll tell you how to get the specimens safely back to MFP for testing.
If you test positive for an STI, an MFP provider can prescribe treatment and help you safely (and anonymously) let current and previous partners know.
Even in the middle of a pandemic, we can’t let our attention to other critical public health issues – like the troubling rise of STIs – falter. That’s why MFP is working hard to find new ways to reach our patients where they are and help keep our communities safe and healthy. We’re here for you.
