Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are among the most common health conditions in the United States, yet they remain one of the least talked about. Stigma, embarrassment, and misinformation often prevent people from getting tested, even when testing is quick, confidential, and widely available.
April is STI Awareness Month, and the CDC is highlighting STI Awareness Week (April 13 to 18, 2026) with a straightforward framework: Talk. Test. Treat. At Advance Medical of Naples, we are joining this effort to help our community understand the importance of regular testing and open communication about sexual health.
STIs Are More Common Than You Think
The CDC estimates that about one in five Americans had an STI on any given day in recent years, and roughly 20 million new infections occur annually. STIs affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles. Some of the most common include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV (human papillomavirus), and HIV.
Perhaps most importantly, many STIs produce no symptoms at all. A person can carry and transmit an infection without ever knowing they have one. That is why routine testing is so important.
Health Consequences of Untreated STIs
When left untreated, STIs can lead to a range of serious health problems:
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, and infertility
- Syphilis can damage the heart, brain, and other organs if left untreated for years
- HPV can lead to cervical, throat, and other cancers
- HIV attacks the immune system and, without treatment, can progress to AIDS
- Herpes causes recurrent outbreaks and can be passed to newborns during delivery
Early detection through testing allows for timely treatment and helps prevent these long-term complications.
Who Should Be Tested, and How Often?
The CDC provides general screening recommendations, but your provider can tailor a testing plan based on your individual situation:
- Sexually active women under 25: annual chlamydia and gonorrhea testing
- Women 25 and older with new or multiple partners: annual chlamydia and gonorrhea testing
- All adults ages 13 to 64: at least one HIV test
- Pregnant individuals: testing for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, chlamydia, and gonorrhea early in pregnancy
- Men who have sex with men: at least annual testing for syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV (more frequently if multiple partners)
- Anyone with a new sexual partner: STI testing before or shortly after beginning the relationship
What to Expect During Testing
STI testing is straightforward. Depending on the infection being tested for, it may involve a urine sample, a blood draw, or a simple swab. Many tests can be completed during a routine office visit, and results are typically available within a few days. Testing is confidential.
If a test is positive, your provider will discuss treatment options with you. Many STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, are curable with antibiotics. Others, like HIV and herpes, can be effectively managed with medication. Your provider can also help you with partner notification if needed.
Prevention Tips
- Use condoms consistently: While not 100% effective, condoms significantly reduce the risk of most STIs.
- Get vaccinated: The HPV vaccine is recommended for individuals ages 11 to 26 and helps prevent cancers caused by HPV. Hepatitis B vaccination is also available.
- Communicate with your partner(s): Talk openly about testing history and sexual health before becoming intimate.
- Get tested regularly: Make STI testing part of your annual health routine, especially if you have new or multiple partners.
- Limit partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners can lower your risk.
Act This April
If you are sexually active, STI testing should be a regular part of your healthcare. There is no reason to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Taking care of your sexual health is a sign of responsibility and self-care. Contact Advance Medical of Naples at (239) 206-2525 to schedule a confidential visit or request an appointment at www.advmednaples.com/contact.
