Why Do I Need to Get Tested for STDs Before an Abortion?

It’s a subject no one really wants to talk about. We get it. However, protecting yourself against STDs is a way you can protect the future you envision for yourself.

While we advocate for getting tested any time you have had unprotected sex or changed partners, ruling out an STI or STD before an abortion can protect you from serious complications.

Why do I need to get tested before an abortion?

During an abortion, the cervix is opened. If you have an infection, this can increase the risk of the STI spreading into other organs. Having an abortion procedure while infected with chlamydia or gonorrhea, two of the most common STIs, can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can cause lifelong damage and lead to future ectopic pregnancies or infertility.

We do not provide or refer for abortion services, but we can give you the medical information you need, including ultrasound verification, to make an informed decision.

What are the most common STD/STI symptoms?

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Clear, white, greenish, or yellowish vaginal discharge or discharge from the penis

• Strong vaginal odor

• Itching or irritation inside the penis or vagina

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Painful urination

However, one of the most common STD symptoms is no symptom at all. We help women stay informed about risks and how to protect themselves from contracting STDs/STIs.

What if I think I’m pregnant?

We can provide in-clinic pregnancy testing and ultrasound confirmation so you can know how far along you are, if the pregnancy is occurring inside the uterus and which options are available to you. At this time, we only provide STD testing referrals and sexual health education.

References:

https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/pelvic-inflammatory-disease

https://www.cdc.gov/std/healthcomm/fact_sheets.htm

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8547409/

https://www.abortionrisks.org/index.php?title=Infection_Associated_With_Abortion