The Responsible Thing to Do: Get Tested for STDs at UHS

In college we are exposed to tests every week, some are academic, social, and one of the most popular tests we take every week is how much sleep we will get.  However, there is one test that every student should consider getting, a sexually transmitted disease test.

Penn State’s University Health Services has a variety of STD/STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) tests that test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B & C, and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus.  This month UHS is trying out walk-in testing which allows you to come in during business hours without an appointment and get tested.

The walk-in STD testing is for chlamydia and gonorrhea only.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chlamydia and gonorrhea are two very common STIs, especially among people ages 15-24.

Chlamydia affects both women and men.  It can cause serious problems to your reproductive system.  Women especially may have difficulties getting pregnant or there can be complications with the pregnancy.  Gonorrhea can also affect both sexes causing a burning sensation while urinating, bleeding, and an increase of puss discharge form both reproductive organs.  Similar to chlamydia, gonorrhea also can cause difficulties with pregnancies.

“College students are at a high risk for STIs,” says Laurie Anne, a registered nurse.  “Yes, STIs are a problem but they become even more serious as they go undetected.”

Symptoms of an STI can go unnoticed for months after a sexual encounter with an infected partner.  Even though you may not notice a change, your reproductive system is already getting damaged.

Whether or not you are sexually active every day or you have only had sex once, getting tested is one of the smartest things that you can do in college.  You should never have to worry about the “what if” factor and now it is even easier to make sure.

The walk-in STD test cost $18 and they will be charged directly to your Penn State bursar account.  The charges will not specify what services were performed during your visit. Students wishing to avoid charging to the bursar altogether may also pay for testing with cash.

Photo credit: facebook.com/PennStateUHS