Blog
The Importance of Sexual Health
Many individuals stay away from the topic of sexual health, but they shouldn’t - it’s very important. Whether a person wants to join a support group, speak with a counselor, or even a close friend, staying safe should be a priority. So, let’s talk for a bit.
Education about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), often begins in early adolescent years. This early learning is critical because it sheds light to young people about the health risks involved with unsafe sexual activity. There are almost 20 million STDs diagnosed each year, half are among young men and women ages 15 - 24. (dph.illinois.gov). This only reinforces just how important education and available resources are to increase sexual health and wellness.
Knowledge and education will only go so far. We know there is no way to control how men and women manage their sexual health. The least we can do is raise awareness and try to encourage proactive measures such as using condoms. Not only do they protect against possible STD transmission but also against unwanted pregnancy. Another way to reduce the risk of contracting an STD is remain in a one-to-one relationship with your partner. By reducing the number of sexual encounters you have with multiple people, you are decreasing the likelihood of becoming infected. Ultimately, practicing abstinence is the only sure-fire way to fully protect your sexual health.
Regardless of how careful you are, there may be a time or two when you doubt your efforts. But that’s okay, because the health providers at SIHF Healthcare in Alton, Illinois can help. This health center, located at 4 Memorial Drive, Building B, Suite 210, provides walk-in STD testing that is private, confidential, and convenient. By convenient, we mean you can walk in without an appointment! As long as you come in between the hours of 8:00am and 4:00pm, Monday - Friday, we’ll make sure you are seen.
There are multiple providers at this health center that can assist you with walk-in testing for the following STDs:
- Chlamydia
- Genital Herpes
- Gonorrhea
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- HIV
- Oral Herpes
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
SIHF Healthcare in Alton also accepts multiple forms of payment for testing. You can submit payment through your health insurance, health savings accounts (HSAs), flex spending accounts (FSAs), credit card or check.
The staff at this SIHF Healthcare location in Alton want you to remain safe and smart when it comes to your sexual health. You don’t need an appointment to come in for private STD testing, simply walk-in. If you have questions you’d like to address before arriving, give us a call at 618.463.5905. We’re here to help.