Who Should Be Screened for STDs and the Long-term Consequences of these Silent Infections?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain one of the most common yet preventable health concerns in the United States, with more than 2.5 million cases of gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia alone in 2022.

Many infections don’t cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages, which means people can unknowingly carry and spread them. At Desert Hills Care Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, we believe regular screenings and open conversations about sexual health are key to protecting your well-being and that of your sexual partners.

Why STD screening matters

STD screening involves simple tests such as urine samples, blood work, swabs, or a Pap smear that can detect infections early, even before symptoms appear. Early detection prevents long-term damage to your body, reduces the risk of passing infections to others, and facilitates more effective and easier treatment.

One of the most concerning aspects of STDs is how easily they go unnoticed. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV often show no symptoms until the infection becomes advanced. Even HIV can remain silent for years.

During this time, infections continue to damage the body and may spread. Because of this, relying on “feeling fine” is not enough. Regular checkups fill the gap between silent infection and visible health problems, and proactive screening is one of the most important steps you can take for your health.

Who should be screened for STDs?

STD screening guidelines recommend regular testing based on age, sexual activity, and risk factors:

Sexually active women

Regular screening is advisable, especially for those who aren’t monogamous. Annual screening is the standard, but you may need testing every six months or more if you’re at a higher risk of infection.

Pregnant women

Routine screening for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and other infections is crucial to protect both mother and baby.

New or multiple partners

Even if you use protection, testing provides peace of mind and early detection.

Individuals with a history of STDs

A past infection increases your risk of future infections, making ongoing screening essential.

Those in long-term relationships

If either partner has been sexually active previously, testing is advisable. Many infections stay dormant for years before surfacing.

People with HIV or compromised immune systems

More frequent testing helps prevent complications.

Open, honest conversations with your provider help determine the best testing schedule for your needs.

Long-term consequences of untreated STDs

When left untreated, STDs can have serious, lifelong health effects. Some of the most significant complications include:

Infertility

Infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which scars the fallopian tubes and makes it difficult or impossible to conceive.

Pregnancy complications

Untreated STDs increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, premature birth, or passing infections to the baby during delivery.

Chronic pain

Pelvic pain is a common long-term effect of untreated infections.

Increased cancer risk

HPV infections can lead to cervical, vaginal, vulvar, or anal cancer if not detected and managed early.

Organ damage

Untreated syphilis can progress to damage the heart, brain, and nervous system, sometimes decades after the original infection.

Higher risk of HIV

Having an STD makes it easier to contract HIV if exposed. HIV management with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can successfully prevent the disease from becoming full-blown AIDS. However, without treatment, the average life expectancy after an AIDS diagnosis is only three years.

These long-term consequences underscore the importance of prevention and early treatment.

Supporting your sexual health

Our team, led by Dr. Helard Ballon-Hennings, takes a compassionate, judgment-free approach to sexual health. We know conversations about STDs can feel uncomfortable, but our priority is your health, safety, and peace of mind. We provide:

• Comprehensive STD screening tailored to your risk factors
• Confidential testing and treatment options
• Preventive care, including vaccines for HPV and hepatitis B
• Education and counseling so you can make informed decisions about your sexual health

If you’re sexually active, STD screening should be a routine part of your health care. By catching infections early, you not only protect your reproductive and overall health but also prevent long-term complications.

Silent infections are more common than many people realize, but the good news is that most STDs are treatable, especially when detected early. Call Desert Hills Care Center or use our online form for compassionate, discreet STD testing.