Why Getting an STI Test Before an Abortion Is Crucial

Dec 30

Before undergoing a serious medical procedure such as an abortion, it's critical to complete STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) testing. It is important to be tested whether you have experienced symptoms or not. Dormant but asymptomatic (not showing symptoms) infections can pose serious risks to your health.

Unveiling Potential Risks

Abortion involves the opening of the cervix, making individuals vulnerable to a range of complications. In fact, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is the most common complication of legal abortion.[4] This is especially true if a woman has common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea. A study from Denmark showed that as many as 5-17% of women seeking an abortion were infected with Chlamydia trachomatis, and many didn’t even know it.[5]

Ignoring the possibility of these infections can lead to the development of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), a severe condition linked with long-term health complications. Repercussions may range from persistent pelvic and abdominal pain to the increased likelihood of future ectopic pregnancies and infertility. Potential risks are high.

Completing STI testing before proceeding with an abortion is a proactive measure that significantly decreases the risk of potential health complications. Identifying and treating STIs before an abortion can alleviate potential harm to their reproductive health.

Types of STIs

For more information on common STIs and their symptoms, feel free to explore the list of STI’s which includes:

Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Trichomoniasis
HIV
Genital herpes symptoms
HPV
Hepatitis
Syphilis
Neurosyphilis

At PSC, we recognize the importance of prioritizing your health and well-being, especially during significant decisions such as considering an abortion. Although we do not test for STIs, if you would like information about STIs please book an appointment with us today.

[1] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/plan-b-one-step-15-mg-levonorgestrel-information

[2]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539737/#:~:text=Levonorgestrel%20(LNG%E2%80%9417alpha%2Dethynyl,releasing%20hormone%20from%20the%20hypothalamus.

[3] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation

[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8547409/

[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1462399/