STI Summer: We’ve Got Your Back (and Front)

Summer is upon us, and as we bid farewell to COVID, we find ourselves faced with a new challenge: an anticipated surge in sexually transmitted infections. Yes, folks, the sun is shining, and love (or lust) is in the air, which means it’s time for a friendly reminder to keep those nether regions safe and sound. 

So, grab your sunblock and listen up: condoms are your trusty sidekicks, limiting your partner count is the new sexy, and getting tested regularly is as essential as slathering on SPF 50. Especially if you’re juggling more than one flame or engaging in acrobatics without protection. Stay clever, stay cautious, and let’s navigate this summer with both style and safety!

Our urgent care providers have a message to deliver: be aware of the symptoms of these common STD’s, and book an appointment if you have any of these pesky symptoms!

• Chlamydia is the most commonly reported bacterial STD in the US. It is spread through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person and may not cause symptoms. However, if left untreated, it can cause infertility in women. When symptoms are present, they include pain during urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, penile discharge and pain during sex.
• Gonorrhea is another common STD, and it can cause irritation and burning during urination.
• Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a virus that causes fever, headaches, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes and painful blisters on the skin. Cases are rising in Chicago as we head into summer, so be extra cautious.
• HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. It is spread through unprotected sex or sharing needles with an infected person. The progression of HIV infection occurs in stages, and the symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the infection. Some general symptoms associated with HIV are: fever, fatigue, body aches, persistent sore throat and rashes.
• Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus and there are 2 main types of herpes viruses: HSV-1, which is primarily associated with oral herpes, and HSV-2, which is primarily associated with genital herpes. Oral herpes is most commonly associated with cold sores or blisters in, on or around your mouth. Genital herpes typically causes painful blisters or sores on or around the genitals, buttocks or anus.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book your appointment online. If treatment is necessary, we can most likely do it right on the spot. We carry medication here at the clinic so you don’t need to stop at the pharmacy after your visit.

Stay informed, stay safe, and rest assured that our clinic has your back (and front) when it comes to your sexual health.