If you’re considering abortion, you may be wondering whether an STI test is really necessary beforehand. The short answer: yes, it’s an important step for your health and safety.
Why STD/STI Testing Matters Before an Abortion
Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs) don’t cause obvious symptoms. You might not realize you have one and that can put you at risk during any medical procedure, including a surgical abortion or chemical abortion.
Untreated infections can increase the risk of serious complications like:
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- Ectopic Pregnancy
- Future fertility problems
- Long-term pelvic pain
Getting tested helps protect your reproductive health and ensures you receive treatment if needed before moving forward.
You can learn more about how often you should get tested for STIs in our article: How Often Should You Get Tested for STDs?
Common STI Testing Before an Abortion
The most common infections that clinics and doctors check for include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomoniasis
- HIV and syphilis (depending on risk factors)
Chlamydia and gonorrhea, in particular, can be present without any symptoms. Twenty million new cases of STIs are found every year in the U.S. So, if you are sexually active, the chances of having an undetected STI are high. If left untreated, it can cause long-term complications.
Empower SAV™ offers free STI testing and treatment for four of the most common STDs at no cost. We also provide free pre-abortion screenings – a critical next step to ensure your health and safety before an abortion. You can book your appointment today.
What if I Test Positive for an STI?
If your test comes back positive, most infections can be treated quickly with antibiotics. The important thing is that you’ll be addressing the infection before it can cause bigger problems.
Do Abortion Clinics Require STI Testing?
Not all clinics test for STDs before an abortion. Some may recommend it, while others leave it up to the patient. That’s why it’s important to ask in advance or schedule your own confidential testing before making an appointment.
Empower SAV™ Women’s Healthcare offers free STI testing and treatment so you can be sure your health and safety is always put first.
Where Can I Get STD Testing for Free in Savannah, GA?
Empower SAV™ offers STI testing and treatment for the following STIs:
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- GIV
- Syphilis
- Referrals for all other STIs
Referrals can be made for additional STI testing. Your appointment is always confidential and free of charge.
If you’re considering an abortion, getting tested for STIs is a simple but important step to protect your health. Even if you don’t have symptoms, testing ensures that you’re safe from preventable complications and can move forward in your pregnancy decision with confidence.