Free STD Testing in Myrtle Beach, SC

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be the consequences of engaging in risky sexual behaviors without the proper precautions taken. Even practicing safe sex with a condom does not fully protect a person as this only blocks fluid and not direct skin-to-skin contact. Teenagers and those who are regularly promiscuous have a high chance of contracting an STD at least once in their lifetime. Although there are extensive resources, most people do not know much about them. Each city and state has a different blend of races, cultures, income levels, and education. Although diversity makes for a wonderful melting pot, it affects how many interact without thinking clearly.

These variances mean there are some discrepancies in how educated a person may be about their sexual health. STDs are commonly underreported due to the stigma behind them. Some STDs are seen as homosexually exclusive by social stereotyping. They are also commonly not diagnosed because the person infected does not know enough to realize they need medical attention. Another reason STDs do not get treated is that the infected do not know how to obtain medical attention at an STD clinic.

• In 2013, 56.6% of high school students were reported as having had sexual intercourse.
• In 2013, 57.5% of sexually active high school students did not use a condom during their last sexual intercourse.
• The rate of primary and secondary syphilis was 5.7 per 100,000 people in 2013.
• In 2013, Chlamydia cases were at a rate of 541.8 per 100,000 people compared to more recently when it was 2,512 per 100,000 people.
• Cases of Gonorrhea increased from 152.3 per 100,000 people to an astonishing 548.5 per 100,000 people from 2013 to 2015.
• Women have 2.8 times more cases of chlamydia than men.
• Currently, there are over 400 cases of Chlamydia in men and women age 15-19.
• There are 88 cases of Gonorrhea in men and women age 15-19.

STD testing is an important method for people to be able to take charge of their sexual health. In your city, there are STD centers that are committed to providing a fast, reliable, and private testing environment. Keeping yourself informed and allowing an open dialog with a healthcare professional is an essential step. During an appointment at an STD clinic, you can expect the following questions answered:

• What are the most common STDs?
• Which STDs are you most at risk to be infected with?
• What can you do in order to remain STD free?
• Which STDs can be cured and which can’t?

Most STDs need to be tested. They are not seen with the naked eye although symptoms such as a lowered immune system, blistered sores, or rashes could indicate an STD. Blood tests, oral swabs, and urine-testing methods are the most common methods of diagnosing STDs. Below are the various ways you may be tested.

• HIV/AIDS – The physician will complete a blood test, oral swab test, or urine test.
• Bacterial vaginosis – The physician will perform a pelvic exam and swab the vaginal walls to test.
• Chlamydia – The physician will perform a physical exam and can swab the discharge from the anus, urethra, or vagina.
• Genital Warts – Typically, this is done during a physical exam. However, some warts can be seen clearly with the naked eye.
• Gonorrhea – The physician will perform a physical, testing the discharge from the anus, urethra, or vagina.
• Herpes – The physician will test a sample of fluid taken from a herpes sore.

Everyone who is sexually active, or has been in the past, should have an STD test performed. Some sexually transmitted diseases such as genital warts and syphilis can take up to 90 days to test positive. The human immunodeficiency virus can take anywhere from three to six months to test positive for someone exposed to it.

For those sexually active, getting STD tested twice a year is a good rule of thumb. This helps report cases so that an idea of where more sexual education and prevention is needed. Demographics of any city will show you an idea of who is more likely to contract a sexually transmitted disease.

• The total population is over 36,000 people.
• 18,600 out of those 36,000 people are male.
• 18,300 of those 36,000 people are women.
• The median age in this city is approximately 44 years old.
• The population is over 70% Caucasian.
• About 11% of the population is African American.

Confidential STD testing is available for anyone who might need it. Although it is a beautiful place, it is not immune to the tribulations of a lack of education for sexually transmitted diseases. This destination is popular all year round due to its nice weather and exciting attractions. The beautiful sandy beaches attract young people who are looking for fun and adventures. Such an increase of people looking to party, particularly young singles between the ages of 15-25, certainly means an increase in sexual activity. With STD testing, preventative care, counseling, and education, STD clinics all over the city are the best way to jump ahead of living with an STD.

http://www.scdhec.gov/health/publichealthclinics/