How can I access STI services?
Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) are offered by walk-in and appointment Monday through Friday. Patients receive STI and prevention education, screening, testing, and treatment if indicated. Please call (410) 612-1779 for an appointment. Some services may be available virtually via telehealth.
How do I pay for STI services?
Most insurances are accepted. A sliding fee discount is offered to uninsured and underinsured clients with proof of income (payment is based on income). Those who are unemployed should provide proof of unemployment. All patients should bring photo ID and insurance information.
What’s the deal with STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affect people of all genders, backgrounds and income levels. In the U.S., STI incidence has increased dramatically in recent years. The CDC estimates that 20 million new infections occur each year, almost half of them among young people ages 15 to 24.
Why should we be concerned?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a critical health concern because they are highly contagious, often asymptomatic, and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent damage like infertility, chronic pain, cancer, and organ damage. Many STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, can go unnoticed while spreading to others and causing serious long-term complications.
What are the most common STIs?
The most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infections (STIs) include HPV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis, which account for the majority of new infections. Others include Syphilis, HIV, and Genital Herpes. Many are asymptomatic but, if left untreated, can cause serious health issues.
How does STI testing work?
Comprehensive testing involves tests for all of the common STIs at all of the places on your body where you can contract them. For most people, this means we draw blood (HIV, syphilis) and take a urine sample or a vaginal culture for GC, CT, and trich (gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis).
If you’ve had oral or anal sex, we’ll also take pharyngeal (throat) or rectal (butt) swabs to test for gonorrhea and chlamydia. Gonorrhea and chlamydia are site-specific, meaning we have to test your urine, throat, and butt to be sure we don’t miss the infection.
What’s the bottom line?
You can’t know for sure whether or not you have an STI unless you get tested. Regular screening is important for all people that are sexually active. Call for an appointment today!
