STDs

Nearly 9 million people under the age of 25 get a new STD every year. Most STD’s are caught through sexual activity. Some STD’s have symptoms but others do not. Some cause sickness, infertility, cancer, or even death. Please be advised that only four types of STD’s are tested at Gateway: HIV/AIDS, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, and Chlamydia. It is important that you are aware and informed about the different types of STD’s. The only way to reduce your risk for an STD is to abstain from sexual activity from someone who is not your spouse.

HIV/AIDS
HIV is a virus that attacks your immune system and eventually destroys it making it difficult to for the body to fight infections and diseases. Flu-like symptoms (tiredness, fever, headaches, nausea, and diarrhea) may first be experienced. Some people have no other symptoms for several years. Even though you may not be experiencing any symptoms, you can still infect others.  There is not a cure for HIV/AIDS but taking medicine daily can help prolong life. Many of the drugs are expensive, difficult to take, and have many side effects. HIV is spread through sexual contact, blood, bodily fluids, and needles used for drugs. Infected pregnant mothers can pass the infection to their unborn child.

Syphilis
Syphilis is caused by bacteria called Treponema pallidum and is very contagious. You can get infected through sexual activity by direct contact with infectious sores or patches that are on the mouth or genitals. Infected pregnant mothers can also pass the infection to their unborn child which can cause major defects or miscarriages. Infected people usually have an ulcer at first. If it is left untreated it can spread through the blood stream, which causes flu-like symptoms and a rash. If the infection continues, it can cause paralysis, blindness, and conditions that can lead to the rupture of major blood vessels and death. Antibiotics are often taken to cure most infections and prevent more damage.

Chlamydia
Chlamydia is the most common STD and is caught through sexual activity. Most people do not have any symptoms but can still pass it to others. Pain when urinating or genital discharge are common symptoms. Antibiotics can treat and cure Chlamydia. If left untreated, women can get a pelvic inflammatory disease, difficulty in getting pregnant, and infertility.

Our tests are done by Wake County Human Services. They will take a blood and urine sample in order to run the test.

All of the STD tests are free, and all identifying information is kept confidential.

Currently, we are testing on Tuesdays from 12 Noon to 4 PM. As this sometimes changes, we recommend that you call 919.833.0096 to verify testing times.