Looking for a hot date idea to impress your special someone? Make an appointment for both of you to get tested at your local clinic! It’s private and intimate, easy on your wallet (many clinics provide free STD testing, and shows you care about yourself and your special’s health too.
Getting tested is important because when it comes to STDs, you or your partner can be carrying one and not even know. Even if you are in a trusting, exclusive relationship, someone you were sexually active with before them could have given them – then you! - an STD.
No one wants to believe they have one, but many STDs don’t show symptoms for a period of time and may not show symptoms at all, even though they are contagious.
Some common STDs that don’t always show symptoms are:
- Chlamydia: A bacterial STD which if left untreated can cause infertility or scarring of the fallopian tubes.
- Gonorrhea: this STD can be in your body for months before showing symptoms, and if left untreated may cause infertility or pelvic inflammatory disease in women.
- Genital Warts (HPV): Many people think of this STD as coming in the form warts their vagina or penis. However, HPV doesn’t always show symptoms, and some strains can lead to cervical cancer. The good news is you can protect yourself by getting the HPV vaccination, which may be available at a clinic near you. Click here to find a clinic in your area.
Contracting an STD is a numbers game, and it only takes 1 partner. So show your partner you care by getting tested together and using a condom every time- you’ll learn more about yourself and each other, and you’ll feel more comfortable and secure in your relationship.
Now that’s a good date!