Clinics in Pearcedale

What is the difference between and STD and an STI?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are ultimately the same thing. The term STI has become more commonly used, as the word infection is not as daunting as the word disease. By using the word infection in place of the word disease, people are encouraged to get tested more regularly and to not be afraid of the result.

If you develop symptoms such as itching, soreness when urinating or blisters on the genital area, these are good indicators that you have an STI. Ignoring these symptoms can increase your chances of further serious health complications.

That is why regular testing in Pearcedale is imperative especially after a new sexual encounter. Better2Know’s wide range of sexual health testing in Pearcedale will provide you with the information you need, whether you have an STI, STD or even nothing!

Chlamydia Testing in Pearcedale

Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs in Pearcedale.  It is easily passed on from one partner to another during sex.  If left untreated it can cause long term health problems and may lead to infertility and other health issues.

You can catch Chlamydia in your genital area, throat (if you gave oral sex) or your rectum (if you received anal sex).  You will need to test each area that might have Chlamydia.

A simple urine sample will test for Chlamydia in your genital area. Your Chlamydia test result will be available in Pearcedale in just a few days. If you do test positive, we will help you to access the treatment you need to get better.

Chlamydia often does not have any symptoms. The only way to know if you are infected is to get tested in your nearest clinic in Pearcedale.

What are the symptoms of STIs?

Many STIs do not present symptoms in the early and sometimes even later stages of infection. Symptoms will also often vary between infection and person. Regular testing in Pearcedale with your local Better2Know clinic is the only way to keep yourself and your partners safe from STIs.

Some signs of an STI infection are:

• pain when urinating or during sex

• lumps or lesions on the genital area

• unusual discharge

• pain in the lower back and kidney area

• flu-like symptoms

• swelling of the penis and/or testicles

• sore throat

• body rashes

If you have one or any of these symptoms, you should test right away. You can book your appointment quickly and easily with Better2Know at one of our many clinics in Pearcedale. With our flexible and available booking options you can get your test and results within just a few days.

Call your Better2Know STI test centre in Pearcedale today using the number above. Book your STI test now and start your journey to a better understanding of your body and better management of your sexual health.

How are STIs diagnosed?

STIs in Pearcedale can only be diagnosed by testing. If you are worried about a sexual encounter you have had, or if you are presenting some STI symptoms, call your local Better2Know testing centre in Pearcedale now to get your testing appointment booked.

Sexually transmitted infections are tested for using a range of different testing methods, each dependent on the STI or STD that is being tested for. Tests can be run on simple blood samples, self-collection urine samples and swab samples. Each sample is collected by a highly trained doctor or nurse in Pearcedale.

Testing with Better2Know in Pearcedale will give you a fast and accurate diagnosis and excellent onward care and support.

How often should I get tested for an STI?

You should get tested for an STI every time you have an encounter with a new sexual partner. It can be easy to let life in Pearcedale take over and not prioritise your sexual health but protecting and maintaining your overall health as well as your sexual health will lead to a better understanding of yourself going forward.

Testing often in Pearcedale is easy with your local Better2Know testing centre. With flexible appointment times we can fit into your schedule with ease.

Can I still have sex if I have an STI?

If you test positive, it is recommended that you stop all sexual activity until you have completed your full course of antibiotics prescribed for your infection. You might also want to have follow up tests as recommended by Better2Know or your doctor, and not have sex until these come back negative.

If you have tested positive for Herpes, HIV or HPV you should consult with your Better2Know doctor about best practice for safe sex as these viruses require different management and treatment and may need long term follow up testing.   If you do have sex in this time, be sure to practice safer sex and let your partner know the risks.

STIs in Pearcedale are passed from person to person through bodily fluids. Although generally safe, kissing can also pass on STIs such as Herpes and HPV. With that in mind, it is always best to stop all sexual activity until you have finished your course of treatment.

Better2Know in Pearcedale can answer all your questions regarding your positive result, offering 24/7 advice and guidance alongside consultations with your Better2Know doctor.

What should I do if I have an STI?

Do not worry if you have tested positive for an STI in Pearcedale. Better2Know’s team of sexual health advisors and doctors are on hand to support and guide you through the next steps.

First, you should stop all sexual activity and inform any recent sexual partners of your result. You can do this anonymously with Better2Know’s partner notification system available in your secure patient area.

Your local team of advisors in Pearcedale will then be able to help you organise your onward treatment and further testing if necessary. If you would prefer, your advisors can help you speak to other medical professionals in Pearcedale to give you the peace of mind you require.

Better2Know will support you throughout your entire sexual health journey in Pearcedale.