Primary Care Is Stop #1 On Your Health Journey
February 5, 2024How Long Does An HIV Test Take?
March 1, 2024Celebrate the season of love with a thoughtful gesture that goes beyond traditional gifts – a Tampa STI check.
Candy and flowers may be traditional gifts for your partner this time of year, but at Harmony Healthcare, your overall health and well-being are the best gifts! As Valentine’s Day approaches, let’s explore how prioritizing your sexual health can be an integral part of nurturing a strong and healthy connection with your partner. Our clinic offers Tampa STI checks at no cost, so you can still fit a box of chocolates in your budget.
The Importance of Your Sexual Health
Eating right, moving your body, and visiting your healthcare provider annually are great ways to keep your physical health on track. But don’t forget about your sexual health, which is just as important!
According to the World Health Organization, sexual health is defined as “a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences free of coercion, discrimination, and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected, and fulfilled.”
And we couldn’t agree more! Getting regular testing from our Tampa STI check clinic is your first step toward sexual health.
Combatting the Stigma of STI Testing
Your sexual health should be celebrated, and what you need to do to get there should also be celebrated. When you feel lousy and think you might have the flu, you get tested, right? Your physician may prescribe medication and a treatment plan if you test positive.
The same should be true for individuals who are sexually active regarding STI tests. It’s much better to know your STI status and seek treatment if you need it than to put others and your own health at risk because you were hesitant to find out.
Our clinics are friendly and welcoming. We want you to be comfortable when you come in for any of our healthcare services, so you don’t even need to make an appointment! We know your life is busy, so we make it easy for you to take charge of your health in a caring and inclusive atmosphere.
What To Expect
When you visit our healthcare clinic, our medical staff will chat with you about any symptoms, your sexual history, and any other relevant information. Please share as much as you’re comfortable with because the more your medical provider knows, the better they can care for you.
Next, your physician will guide you through the testing process. No test exists for all STIs, so your healthcare provider will recommend the right ones based on your situation. It might involve a physical exam, urine sample, finger prick, or blood draw.
After the tests, your samples go to the lab for analysis. Testing can take a few hours up to a few days, and our staff will notify you when we have the results.
Sharing Is Caring
Whether your results are negative or positive, sharing your status with your partner fosters a healthy relationship. You could even make it a date and get tested together! Shedding the stigma of STI testing will help encourage open communication in your relationship, creating a foundation of trust and support.
Our caring staff wants to help you celebrate your love this Valentine’s Day and all year long with no-cost Tampa STI checks. Contact us with any questions, or stop by! We’d LOVE to see you!