What Are the Risks of Untreated STDs?

Dec 4, 2024 | STD

What are the risks of untreated STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. When left untreated, STDs can lead to serious health complications that affect not only the woman but also their partner and, in some cases, their pregnancy.

Understanding the risks, recognizing symptoms, and knowing how STD testing works are crucial steps in protecting your health. (Looking for complimentary STD testing? Contact us today to schedule your appointment.)

Risks of Untreated STDs

Many common STDs don’t present with symptoms. However, even though you may not have symptoms, STDs can still cause reproductive damage—and, if you’re pregnant, harm your baby.

Risks of untreated STDs include:

  1. Chronic health problems: Untreated STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, causing chronic pelvic pain and damage to the reproductive organs.
  2. Infertility: Both men and women can experience infertility as a result of untreated STDs. For example, PID from chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause scarring in the fallopian tubes, preventing pregnancy.
  3. Increased risk of HIV: Having an untreated STD can make an individual more susceptible to contracting HIV. Infections like syphilis and herpes cause open sores, which can act as entry points for the HIV virus.
  4. Transmission to partners: Without treatment, STDs can be easily transmitted to sexual partners, perpetuating the spread of infections.
  5. Complications in pregnancy: Pregnant women with untreated STDs risk passing the infection to their baby, leading to premature birth, low birth weight, or congenital infections that can be deadly.

Common STD Symptoms

While some STDs may be asymptomatic, the following symptoms can be indicators:

  • Chlamydia: Although often called a “silent” infection, when symptoms do present, they can include abnormal genital discharge, burning during urination, lower abdominal or back pain, nausea and fever.
  • Gonorrhea: Similar to chlamydia, with possible additional symptoms like abdominal pain and bleeding between periods.
  • Syphilis: Starts with a painless sore at the infection site, followed by a rash on the body, especially the palms and soles.
  • Genital herpes: Painful blisters or sores around the genital or rectal area.
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV): Some strains cause genital warts; others are linked to cervical and other cancers.
  • HIV/AIDS: Flu-like symptoms in early stages, followed by a prolonged asymptomatic period before severe immune system compromise.

Get Complimentary STD Testing

At Women’s Care Center, we offer complimentary STD testing and treatment. If you’re sexually active or pregnant, schedule your STD testing appointment today to protect your health.

We’re here for you.