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So many people carry shame or embarrassment around sexually transmitted diseases, but they’re incredibly common. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates one in every five people in the United States has an STD.
At Yorktown Health in Lombard, Lisle, and Vernon Hills, Illinois, we want you to know this: There’s absolutely no reason to be ashamed of your STD. We encourage you to get tested regularly and treated if necessary so you don’t experience complications.
Read on to learn more about managing your sexual health.
STDs are medical conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, relationship status, or sexual orientation. These are not rare occurrences. They’re part of the reality of being human and sexually active.
Left untreated, STDs can lead to serious health complications, even if you don’t have symptoms. These may include chronic pain, infertility, complications during pregnancy, increased risk of HIV, and long-term damage to reproductive organs.
Early detection and treatment are key to protecting your health and preventing the spread of infection to others.
If you feel ashamed or judged, you might avoid getting tested, skip treatment, or hesitate to notify your partners. This not only increases health risks but also contributes to the continued spread of infections.
Shame gets in the way of healing and open communication. We want to help remove stigma from STDs so you can make safer choices and seek earlier treatment.
Routine STD testing should be as normal as a physical exam or a dental checkup. It’s an act of responsibility, respect for yourself, and care for your partners.
When you come to us for regular screening, we can catch infections early — often before symptoms appear — so we can treat them effectively. In many cases, STDs are curable with antibiotics. In others, they’re very manageable with medication and monitoring.
Our team offers a safe, nonjudgmental environment. We protect your privacy and take your health seriously. Whether you're here for testing, treatment, or just to ask questions, we treat you with respect and offer support. We’re here to help you take charge of your sexual health — not to shame or blame.
Talking openly about STDs helps break the cycle of silence and stigma. Encourage your friends and partners to get tested. Ask questions. Educate yourself. Normalize discussions around sexual health the same way we do about mental health or physical injuries. It's all part of taking care of your body.
If you’re due for an STD screening or have concerns about symptoms, don’t wait. Reach out to us at Yorktown Health by phone, or use our online tool to book an appointment. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about when you’re taking care of your health.