What is STD/STI?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are generally caused by sexual contact.
Sexually transmitted infections caused by the bacteria, viruses or parasites.
The most common STIs are:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Human Papilloma Virus (Genital warts)
- Herpes Virus (cold sores)
- Hepatitis A, B and C
- HIV (AIDS)
Mycoplasma – STD that often remains silent.
Most people infected with mycoplasma have no symptoms at all. An STI that may be infecting up to 700,000 Australians without them knowing.
Mycoplasma is a common infection affecting the cervix, urethra, and rectum. Mycoplasma is passed on through intimate contact whether your partner is the same gender as you or different gender.
Why discreet testing is important?
Some Sexually Transmitted Infections such as Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Gonorrhea may be present without any symptoms.
Not having symptoms does not stop a person from spreading STIs to others because it may you or your partner/s have an STI without knowing it.
Using condoms do not provide full protection from STD/STI but can be effective way to be stay STD free.
If not treated, STIs lead to many health problems including infertility, impotence, systemic problems and even death.
What complications may occur?
The person may be spreading those STIs without even knowing.
Chlamydia is a common STD caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which can damage a woman’s reproductive organs.
Even though symptoms of chlamydia are usually mild or absent, serious complications that cause irreversible damage, including infertility, can occur before a woman ever recognises a problem.
A bit about tests
Getting tested every 6-12 months is a effective way to stay free of STI.
Regular screening can help detect instances when an infection is present despite having no symptoms.
Most of the common STIs can be treated successfully if tested early.
Your GP can easily test you for STIs by
- urine test
- blood test
- swab test
Your doctor will tell you which tests you should have.
Normally, it takes 1 to 2 weeks to get the test results.
Our medical team are experts in sexual health. We offer a range of services relating to sexual health.
Fitzroy North Doctors Medical Centre offers bulk billing to all Medicare card holders for consultations exclusively for STD checks.
Our General Practitioners will conduct the STD/STI testing in a non-judgmental manner.
Peace of mind is just a telephone call away…
Call (03)9481 0000 for an appointment or book online via our website 24/7