We are committed to empowering you to care for your reproductive health; here’s a beginner’s guide of what reproductive health is and why it is important to monitor it.
What is Reproductive Health?
The CDC defines reproductive health this way:
A woman’s reproductive system is a delicate and complex system in the body. It is important to take steps to protect
it from infections and injury, and prevent problems—including some long-term health problems. Taking care of yourself and making healthy choices can help protect you and your loved ones. Protecting your reproductive system also means having control of your health, if and when, you become pregnant.
The Cleveland Clinic explains the reproductive system as “a collection of internal and external organs — in both males and females — that work together for the purpose of procreating.”
Here are 4 reasons to monitor your reproductive health
1. To diagnose and treat diseases early
There are new guidelines for Pap testing and HPV testing. With routine testing,
you increase the likelihood of early detection and treatment, increasing the
chance of a better outcome.
2. To stop the spread of STI’s
Studies report that there are approximately 2.3 million new chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis cases every year in the United States alone.
The CDC recommends, “All sexually active women younger than 25 years should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year. Women 25 years and older with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners or a sex partner who has an STD should also be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.”
Pregnancy Center East offers testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea for men and women. Our services are free and confidential. For a full panel of STI testing, consult your doctor ( including Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV, Syphilis, Herpes, Trichomoniasis) or the local health department.
3. To protect fertility
Some couples may experience infertility, which can impact emotional health and relationships. By monitoring your reproductive health, you can help protect your fertility with routine STI testing, Pap and HPV testing, seeking medical help with any symptoms, maintaining a healthy weight, exercise, and eating healthy, nutritious foods.
4. To prevent cancer
Untreated STIs, stress, and lifestyle choices can be contributing factors to getting cancer in the future. By being proactive now can lead to better health as you grow older.
Your health is our priority. We are here to empower you with resources to keep you healthy. Make a confidential appointment today for an STI test at the link above.
Links
STI-STD: What You Need To Know
5 Smart Strategies for A Healthy Relationship
Source: CDC, HHS
Posted on October 12, 2020 View the blog
