STI Testing and Treatment

Choices Life Resource Center provides STI Testing for women and men in Indiana with centers in
New Albany, Corydon and Salem. Our STI/STD services are free, but a low-cost lab fee may apply.

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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be a serious concern. Left untreated, infections can cause irreversible damage to your reproductive system. Both STIs and STDs can pass onto newborns during childbirth if the mother is infected and remains untreated.

It’s important to remember that not everyone infected with an STD will experience signs or symptoms. But STDs can still cause severe damage, and can be passed to your partner(s) without your knowledge. You don’t need to be experiencing symptoms to be contagious. You can spread the disease at any time.

STDs and STIs… What’s the difference?

The terms STD (sexually transmitted disease) and STI (sexually transmitted infection) are often used interchangeably. But do you know the difference?

The term “STI” (sexually transmitted infection) is used to describe the presence of an infection in the body, which may or may not be accompanied by symptoms. The term “STD” (sexually transmitted diseases) on the other hand, describes an infection that has caused damage in a person’s body—though, like sexually transmitted infections, an STD may or may not be accompanied by symptoms.

STI is the broader of the two terms. All STDs are STIs, though not all STIs become STDs.

So what’s the big deal with STIs?

For starters, 1 in 4 sexually active teens has an STI according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Stop and think; 1 in 4. Is that someone you know? Maybe they don’t even know they’ve got an STI. You can’t always tell.

Some STIs can make you sick today and others can cause problems later in life. Problems like cancer, infertility or death. Not exactly harmless or fun!

I’m sexually active. How often should I get tested for STIs?

The CDC recommends STI testing any time you have had new or multiple sex partners. There are four types of sex that can put you at risk for contracting an STI: vaginal sex, oral sex, anal sex and mutual masturbation. Many infections may not cause symptoms but can still be passed between partners. Also remember that condoms, even if used consistently and correctly each and every time, they cannot provide 100% protection.

Am I not tested for STIs during my yearly check-up?

While the services performed in a yearly check-up vary by physician, most physicians will not screen for STIs unless requested to do so. Please ask your physician for more information about what testing they routinely offer during your appointment.

How do I prepare for my visit?

You will need a photo ID and should not use the restroom within an hour of your visit, to ensure the most accurate test results.

What can I be tested for?

We can test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis and trichomoniasis.

Will it cost me anything?

All of our testing is free; however, some tests do have lab fees. Payment is due at time of testing.

How will I get my test results?

STI results will take 7-10 days to receive. We will schedule a follow-up appointment for you at the time of your testing.

Is it possible to stay STI free?

Yes. By not having sex until marriage you can guarantee that you won’t have to deal with an STI. If two people get married and have never been exposed to anyone who might have an STI there is no way they can get one.

Is it possible to wait until marriage?

Yes. More and more teens are making the choice to stay healthy not only physically, but emotionally and mentally, too.

What About Abortion?

If not treated prior to an abortion, these infections may cause serious health problems. During an abortion these organisms can be carried from the vagina up into the uterus. When this occurs, a second condition called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) may develop.

Immediate symptoms of PID can be mild and even non-existent, but the effects are long lasting. According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women with a history of PID experience difficulty getting pregnant. PID is known to cause scarring of the Fallopian tubes, increasing the risk of an ectopic pregnancy. This may result in serious maternal complications, even death.

The Center for Disease Control can provide you with accurate and up-to-date information on each STI.

Know your options. Be educated.

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