Beyond Plan B: STI Prevention After Condomless Sex
Emergency Contraception Isn’t the Only “Plan B” When people think about what to do after unprotected sex, preventing pregnancy is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But there’s another crucial part of the conversation: protecting yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you’ve recently had condomless sex, there’s more you can do to […]
A Condom Every Time?!
Yes, Yes, and Yes – Why Condoms Matter Condoms are one of the most effective tools for preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies. When a condom is used correctly every time, condoms are 98% effective in protecting against STIs, including HIV, and reducing pregnancy risk. How to Use a Condom Properly Check the […]
Emergency Contraceptives and Plan B: What You Need to Know
Understanding Emergency Contraception Unexpected situations happen, and having access to emergency contraception can provide major peace of mind. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) like Plan B help prevent pregnancy when taken within a certain timeframe after unprotected sex. How Plan B Works Plan B contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that helps prevent ovulation. Without ovulation, there’s no […]
Speak Up, Stay Safe: Advocating for Your Reproductive & Sexual Health Starts with You
You Deserve to Be Heard—And Helped New guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) are finally telling doctors what many women have known for decades: gynecological procedures can hurt, and that pain should be taken seriously. For the first time, ACOG is recommending specific pain relief options—like anesthetic creams, sprays, and injections—for […]
Sexual Health Best Practices: The Importance of Regular STD Testing
Why Testing Every 3-6 Months Matters If you’re sexually active, getting tested every 3 to 6 months is a vital part of maintaining your sexual health. Regular testing helps prevent the spread of STIs, ensures early treatment, and gives you peace of mind. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), STI testing […]
How to Prepare for an STD Test and What to Expect
Feeling a bit nervous about your testing appointment? That’s normal. Let’s demystify the process by outlining how to prepare and what will happen during your visit. Before Your STD Test – Preparation The good news is that in most cases, STD tests don’t require much special preparation. You don’t need to fast or do anything […]
Quick Guide to STD Testing in St. Louis
If you’re sexually active, getting tested is one of the smartest things you can do for your health. St. Louis offers free or low-cost STD tests at clinics like Health Stop STL and others. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common STD tests in St. Louis, what they check for, and who should get […]
The Silent Spread: Why Asymptomatic STDs Are a Big Deal
No Symptoms DOES NOT MEAN No STDs You might feel totally fine, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) don’t show any symptoms, especially in the early stages. This means you or your partner could have an infection and not even know it. That’s why regular STD testing is […]
Where to Get STD Tests in St. Louis
Looking for STD testing in St. Louis? You’ve got options. Whether you need a quick HIV test, a full STD panel, or just peace of mind, St. Louis offers several trusted places where you can get tested—many of them for free or at a very low cost. From walk-in clinics to at-home kits, here’s a […]