Sexual Health

Sexually Transmitted Infections and Your Body

Any time a person has sexual contact with a partner, there is a chance of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Condoms and other barrier methods may help reduce the risk of contracting an STI, but these methods are only risk reduction, not risk elimination. Many STIs show no signs or symptoms. Therefore, it is important to be tested regularly. How regularly you should be tested depends on your sexual behaviors and other risk factors.

What are common signs of an STI?

Some people experience symptoms like:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Unusual discharge
• Sores, bumps, or rashes
• Pelvic pain
• Itching or irritation

But many STIs show no symptoms at all. That’s why regular testing matters.

Could I Have an STI?

Can I have an STI without knowing it?

Yes. Many STIs are “silent,” meaning there may be no obvious symptoms for weeks, months, or even years. Even without symptoms, an STI can still be passed to a partner and may cause long-term health complications if left untreated.

How Can I Prevent or Reduce My Risk of an STI?

Any type of sexual activity — including vaginal, oral, or anal sex — carries some risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Condoms and other barrier methods can help reduce the risk of transmission, but they do not eliminate risk completely. Abstinence, or choosing not to engage in vaginal, oral, or anal sex, is the only way to fully prevent sexually transmitted infections.

Understanding your risk and making informed choices about your sexual health can help protect both you and your partners.

What If I Test Positive for an STI?

First, take a breath. A positive STI test can feel overwhelming, but many sexually transmitted infections can be treated, and some are curable.

The next step is to speak with a medical professional and begin a treatment plan if your test is positive for an STI. To prevent passing an STI to your partner(s), do not engage in any sexual activity until you have completed a treatment plan and have been cleared by your healthcare provider.

A positive test does not define your worth, your future, or your relationships. There is help, hope, and healing available. If you need someone to talk to, our advocates are here to provide confidential support without shame or judgment.

Who Should Be Tested for STIs?

Anyone who has engaged in any type of sexual activity should consider being tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), regardless of age, relationship status, or whether they have symptoms.

Because many STIs can exist without noticeable signs, regular testing is an important part of protecting your health and the health of your partners. If you have been sexually active, STI testing can provide valuable information and peace of mind.

Could My Partner Have Lied About Having an STI ?

It is possible. Some people may not know they have an STI because many infections cause few or no symptoms. Others may not be fully honest about their sexual history or STI status.

While open and honest conversations about sexual health are important, they cannot guarantee that you know your partner’s complete health history. Any time you engage in sexual activity with an infected partner, there is a risk of contracting an STI.

If you have concerns about possible exposure, getting tested is the best way to protect your health and gain peace of mind.

Should I Get Tested If My Partner Has an STI?

Yes. If you have had any type of sexual contact with someone who has tested positive for an STI, you should stop sexual activity and seek testing as soon as possible.

If you have concerns about possible exposure, a healthcare professional can help you determine the appropriate next steps.

Are STIs common?

Yes. STIs are very common. Millions of people in the United States are currently living with a sexually transmitted infection.

If you are worried about your sexual health, you are not alone.

Does Birthline Provide STI Testing?

Birthline does not provide STI testing directly, but we can connect you with trusted testing resources in Northern Colorado and offer confidential support and guidance along the way.

What Should I Do Next?

It is estimated that about 20 percent of the United States population – approximately one in five people in the U.S. –has an STI. If you think you may have been exposed to an STI, don’t wait in fear or uncertainty. Getting tested is a simple and important step toward protecting your health and the health of your partners.

Many people experience an STI at some point in their lives, and help is available. At Birthline, we can provide support, answer your questions, and refer you to STI testing resources in your area. No matter the outcome, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

We’re here to offer guidance, hope, and a safe place to talk without judgment.

Take the Next Step

You do not have to figure this out alone. Birthline offers confidential support, caring guidance, and referrals for STI testing in Northern Colorado.

Schedule an Appointment Today

We are here to listen, answer your questions, and help you take the next right step — without shame or pressure.

Contact us today for confidential help and support.