Protecting Your Sexual Health
A sexually transmitted infection (STI), sometimes referred to as a sexually transmitted disease (STD), is an infection that is caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Some bacterial and parasitic STIs can be treated and cured with antibiotics. Viral infections can be managed with ongoing treatment to reduce symptoms and complications.
STIs spread through sexual contact. Abstaining from sexual contact is the only guaranteed way to prevent STIs. If you’re sexually active, being in a mutually monogamous relationship with an STI-free partner is one of the most effective ways to lower your risk.
Because many infections do not cause symptoms, routine testing remains an important part of sexual health for anyone who is sexually active.
At Paris Pregnancy Care Center, we provide free, confidential STD/STI testing in a caring and respectful environment. We’re here to help you get answers and protect your health.
Signs and Symptoms
One of the most important things to know is that many STIs do not cause noticeable symptoms. That means you can feel completely fine and still have an infection. Because of this, symptoms alone are not a reliable way to know your health.
When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Unusual discharge
- Pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort
- Itching or irritation
- Sores, bumps, or rashes in the genital area
- Bleeding between periods
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection, and some may appear mild or come and go. Because symptoms are not always present, testing is the only reliable way to know your status.
What We Test For
We test for several of the most common sexually transmitted infections using a simple urine sample, a blood draw, or both, depending on the infection being screened for.
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomoniasis (women only)
- HIV
- Hepatitis C
- Syphilis
What to Expect
A member of our nursing team will explain each step and answer any questions you may have. You always have the right to decline any part of the testing process.
Results are typically available within 5 to 7 days. Once they’re ready, we’ll text you to schedule a follow-up appointment. To protect your privacy, all results, whether positive or negative, are shared in person rather than by phone or text.
Walk-ins are welcome during clinic hours, though scheduling ahead is recommended.
If You Test Positive
If you test positive for chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis, treatment is provided at no cost on site. You will receive clear written and verbal instructions so you understand what to take and what to expect.
For infections that require additional care, we will connect you with the appropriate healthcare provider or local health department. We will also discuss partner notification and recommend retesting in three months to check for reinfection.
Pregnancy and STIs
STI testing is a standard part of prenatal care. An undetected STI during pregnancy can affect both maternal and fetal health, so testing typically happens early in the first appointment.
If you’re pregnant, early STI testing matters regardless of what you’re considering for your options. An untreated STI can travel deeper into the reproductive system during any uterine procedure, potentially causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious infection linked to chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Knowing your STI status before making any decision protects your long-term reproductive health.
Confidentiality
Your information is kept confidential. Texas law does require certain positive test results to be reported to the state health department. If this applies to you, we will explain what it means and answer any questions before anything is reported.
Get the Answers You Need
There were over 2.2 million STI cases reported in the US in 2024. Many go undetected without testing. Testing is the only way to know for sure, and identifying an infection early can make treatment easier and help protect your long-term health.
Taking care of your sexual health starts with having the right information. Schedule your free, confidential STD/STI testing appointment today.
