STI Testing

Yes, in fact, many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning that they cause no noticeable symptoms. If you are sexually active, then you are at risk for contracting an STI. This is why routine testing is necessary for taking care of your health! You might be comforted to know, though, that both chlamydia and gonorrhea are treatable through antibiotics if caught early enough.

The terms “STI” and “STD” are often used interchangeably, though they are technically different. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) refers to an infection that was contracted through sexual contact that may or may not be accompanied by symptoms. Infections refer to the first step of disease, when bacteria or viruses enter the body and begin to multiply. Infections become diseases when bodily function or structure is interrupted, especially as signs and symptoms appear. For example, someone who tests positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea has an STI, but if untreated, it could develop into Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), making it a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD). Essentially, all STDs start as STIs. STIs that progress into a disease are STDs. As STIs develop into STDs, they can pose serious health risks. Call or schedule a free appointment today.

We screen for chlamydia and gonorrhea using a urine test, so you will provide a sample at your appointment to one of our nurses for testing. You’ll schedule a follow-up appointment for about a week later to receive your results!

Don’t worry – we’ll help you with next steps! Chlamydia and gonorrhea are both treatable through antibiotics, especially when caught early. Should you test positive, we will refer you for treatment.

Federal law mandates that positive tests be reported to Health Department. You can rest assured that your information will still be protected because the Health Department functions under federal confidentiality guidelines.

Yes! Infection, often leading to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), is known to be a potential complication of abortion ⁽¹⁾. There are many different reasons infection can develop after an induced abortion, one being the presence of an STI at the time of the procedure ⁽²⁾. Some studies suggest that treating everyone with antibiotics before and after the procedure will reduce the risk ⁽³⁾. However, aside from the downsides of receiving medicine you don’t need if you don’t have an STI, if you’re treated for an infection you don’t know you have, you can easily become re-infected. We think it’s better safe than sorry! Testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea before your abortion is safe, easy, and free at Agape.

1. Rahangdale L. Infectious complications of pregnancy termination. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2009 Jun;52(2):198-204. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0b013e3181a2b6dd. PMID: 19407526.
2. Lawton BA, Rose SB, Bromhead C, et al. High prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium in women presenting for termination of pregnancy. Contraception. 2008 Apr;77(4):294-298. DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2007.12.002. PMID: 18342654.
3. Sawaya GF, Grady D, Kerlikowske K, Grimes DA. Antibiotics at the time of induced abortion: the case for universal prophylaxis based on a meta-analysis. Obstet Gynecol. 1996 May;87(5 Pt 2):884-90. PMID: 8677129.

Yes! All of Agape’s services are 100% free and confidential. We won’t ask for your insurance and you will never receive a bill from our center – we don’t even have a billing department! We receive no financial gain from your decision.

We are able to provide free services to you because of generous support from local individuals, institutions, and businesses – from your community. Our partners support Agape because they believe you matter and they want to help.