Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, can affect anyone sexually active. Even so, these common infections are surrounded by massive misinformation. Unfortunately, that prevents many people from seeking necessary screenings or discussing their health openly with partners and medical providers.
At Macomb Medical Clinic, P.C., in Sterling Heights, Mark R. Rosenberg, DO, and his team believe that education is the first step in proactive health management. Here’s what they want you to know.
A prevalent myth is that a person will always know if they have an STI because they will experience symptoms like pain, itching, or discharge. In reality, many of the most common infections are asymptomatic. However, diseases such as chlamydia and gonorrhea often present no visible signs, especially in their early stages.
The absence of symptoms does not mean there is no risk. These silent infections can still be transmitted to partners and may cause internal damage, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, if left untreated. Regular testing is the only way to know your status truly.
Many patients assume that a routine annual physical or a standard blood draw automatically includes a comprehensive STI panel. This is a dangerous misconception. Most healthcare providers order specific STI tests only when the patient explicitly requests them or when there are clear clinical indicators.
Current data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows the United States still recorded over 2.2 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis last year.
This statistic underscores the importance of active communication. When you visit us at Macomb Medical Clinic, P.C., we want you to feel comfortable discussing your sexual health history so we can ensure you receive the appropriate screenings tailored to your needs.
Another common myth is that STIs only affect younger populations. However, rates among adults aged 50 and older have risen significantly over the last decade. Sexual health remains a priority at every stage of life, and age does not provide immunity against bacterial or viral infections.
The positive news is that most bacterial STIs are curable with a course of antibiotics. Furthermore, new preventative strategies have emerged recently. The CDC now highlights the effectiveness of Doxy-PEP, which involves taking a specific dose of the antibiotic doxycycline within 72 hours of unprotected sex to significantly reduce the risk of contracting syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
Taking control of your sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being. If you are due for a screening or have questions about your risk factors, the team at Macomb Medical Clinic, P.C. is here to provide confidential, professional care. Call our office in Sterling Heights or use our online booking tool to request an appointment.
