With Philomena Salvemini Hilton, MD, FACOG, Tryon Medical Partners
Many people feel uncomfortable discussing sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). However, understanding your sexual health is as important as any other aspect of wellness. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship, recently single, or actively dating, knowing the facts about STIs can help you make informed decisions about your health.
Despite common beliefs, STDs often show no obvious symptoms and can affect anyone, regardless of age or relationship status. In fact, according to the CDC, about one in five people in the United States have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) on any given day.
Tryon Medical Partners gynecology and sexual health specialist Dr. Philomena Salvemini breaks down what you need to know about STIs, from prevention strategies to testing recommendations, helping you take control of your sexual health with confidence.
1. You can get STIs several ways.
Dr. Salvemini emphasizes that STDs don’t discriminate based on age or relationship status – anyone who is sexually active is at risk of giving or getting an STI. Additionally, STDs can be transmitted through various forms of intimate contact, including genital, oral, and anal interactions.
“One common misconception I hear from patients is that you can only get STIs through vaginal intercourse,” Dr. Salvemini says. “In reality, if you have unprotected anal or oral sex, you can get or give an STI.”
2. STIs don’t always show symptoms.
While many STDs can be asymptomatic, there are several potential indicators to watch for.
These can include:
- Sore throat (which might indicate a chlamydia infection)
- Pelvic pain
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Blisters in the genital area
The specific symptoms often depend on both the type of STD and how it was contracted.
“The way an STI presents can vary greatly depending on the type of sexual contact and the specific infection,” Dr. Salvemini explains. “If you notice any unusual symptoms, reach out to whoever you feel most comfortable speaking with – any primary care doctor should be able to help, and at Tryon, we strive to maintain a friendly, judgment-free environment.”
3. Prevention and screening is the best way to avoid infection.
Because STIs don’t always present with symptoms, prevention and screening are key. And prevention starts with open communication and STI screening.
“If you’re starting a relationship with a new partner, I recommend both parties get STD screening with their primary care clinician before becoming intimate,” advises Dr. Salvemini. “This helps prevent inadvertently spreading infections to partners.”
For those who aren’t in monogamous relationships, consistent condom use and regular screening are crucial. The frequency of screening may vary based on individual circumstances.
“If you’re dating multiple partners, getting tested every 60 days is advisable,” Dr. Salvemini advises. “For those who aren’t in monogamous relationships, we typically recommend testing at least once a year, and more frequently if there are new partners or symptoms.”
For the most comprehensive screening, various testing methods are available. While urine screening is an option, Dr. Salvemini recommends endocervical or urethral swabbing for female patients, along with testing for herpes and bloodwork for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis.
4. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about.
Dr. Salvemini emphasizes that sexual health shouldn’t come with shame. Sex is a normal, healthy part of many adult relationships. What’s important is getting tested afterward.
“Think of STI testing as self-love,” Dr. Salvemini says. “Remember, when you’re intimate with someone, you’re potentially being exposed to their previous partners’ sexual health history as well. So it’s important to protect yourself.”
Visit the Tryon Women’s Center website to learn more about STI screening and sexual health services today.
Tryon Medical Partners is an independent medical practice dedicated to maintaining trusted patient-doctor relationships, providing excellent and personalized care, and giving you the choices in healthcare that you deserve. With eight convenient locations throughout Charlotte, Tryon Medical Partners specializes in primary care as well as cardiology, dermatology, gynecology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, pulmonary, rheumatology and sleep medicine.
