Independent Student Newspaper Since 1969

The Badger Herald

Independent Student Newspaper Since 1969

The Badger Herald

Independent Student Newspaper Since 1969

The Badger Herald

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Letter to the editor: Getting tested for STDs crucial for young people

Letter+to+the+editor%3A+Getting+tested+for+STDs+crucial+for+young+people

April is Sexually Transmitted Disease Awareness Month. If you’re a sexually active young person, you should know that STDs continue to disproportionately affect young people. Half of the estimated 20 million STDs each year occur among the under-25 age group, even though we only represent one quarter of the sexually active population. And young people account for the largest percentage of new HIV infections each year.

As a college student, I know that some conversations may seem hard or awkward, but open communication is essential to staying healthy and stopping the spread of STDs. You can take care of yourself and your partner by talking about getting tested (and using condoms to prevent future infections) before you start having sex. Since many STDs show no symptoms, you or your partner may have an STD from a previous relationship and not know it. I also understand how people my age can feel uncomfortable asking to get tested, but it can be as simple as asking your provider, “Should I be tested for STDs?”

It may feel awkward at first, but taking charge of our health by getting tested is one of the most important things we can do. If not treated, STDs can lead to serious health outcomes. The sooner you know your status, the sooner you can get treated and avoid cervical cancer or infertility.

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To find out more about STDs and getting tested, visit the “Get Yourself Tested” website or contact UHS to schedule a check-up. You can also contact a Planned Parenthood health center near you to make an appointment. Planned Parenthood works everyday to keep young people healthy, and their doors are open to everyone.

Get yourself tested!

Maggie Mehr (mmehr@wisc.edu) is a senior majoring in gender and women’s studies and Spanish. 

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