There is an old saying that claims, “What you don’t know can’t hurt you.” When it comes to your sexual health, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, what you don’t know can definitely hurt you—and potentially those you care about.
April is STD Awareness Month, a time to strip away the stigma and shame surrounding Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). We know this isn’t exactly the topic everyone wants to bring up over coffee, but asking yourself, “How is your sexual health?” is just as important as checking your blood pressure or cholesterol. At About You Family Medicine, we believe that taking care of your sexual health is a vital part of self-care, and you deserve a doctor who treats it that way.
Breaking the Silence Around Sexual Health
Let’s face it: talking about sex with a doctor can feel awkward. In a traditional healthcare setting, where you might only have 10 minutes with a provider you barely know, that awkwardness often leads to silence. You might have questions you’re too embarrassed to ask, or symptoms you’re hoping will just go away on their own.
But silence is an STD’s best friend. Many infections are spread simply because people are unaware, they have them. Normalizing these conversations is the first step toward a healthier life.
Did You Know?
According to the CDC, nearly 20% of the U.S. population has an STI on any given day. That’s 1 in 5 people. It is far more common than most people realize, meaning you are certainly not alone in needing care or screening.
The “Silent” Symptoms
One of the biggest misconceptions about sexual health is that you will know if something is wrong. The reality is that many STDs are “silent,” meaning they often show no symptoms at all, especially in the early stages. You can feel perfectly healthy and still have an infection that needs treatment.
Little Known Fact
Chlamydia and gonorrhea, two of the most common bacterial STIs, are often completely asymptomatic. Without testing, they can go undetected for months or years, potentially leading to long-term complications like infertility.
Direct Primary Care for Sexual Health: A Better Way
This is where the healthcare model matters. Direct Primary Care for sexual health offers a level of privacy, comfort, and accessibility that is hard to find in the traditional system. At About You Family Medicine, our Direct Primary Care (DPC) model is built on trust and time.
A Judgement-Free Zone
Because our appointments are significantly longer—typically 45 to 90 minutes—we have the time to establish a real rapport. We aren’t just rushing through a checklist; we are listening to you. This relaxed environment makes it much easier to have honest, open conversations about your lifestyle, your partners, and your risks without fear of judgment.
Care Tip:
Honesty is the best policy. Your DPC doctor isn’t there to judge your choices; they are there to protect your health. Being open about your sexual history helps us recommend the exact tests you need, saving you time and worry.
Privacy and Affordability
In a DPC practice, privacy is paramount. We handle many things in-house or through discreet partnerships. Furthermore, cost shouldn’t be a barrier to peace of mind. STDs are largely treatable, but the cost of testing in a traditional system can sometimes be a shock. We offer transparent pricing on labs, so you know exactly what testing costs upfront—often at a fraction of standard insurance rates.
Did You Know?
Most STDs are curable with antibiotics, and all are manageable with proper medical care. The sooner you know, the sooner you can get treated and move on with your life.
Taking Control of Your Health in Smyrna and Roswell
We are proud to serve the Smyrna, Roswell, and Midtown Atlanta communities as industry leaders in personalized healthcare. At About You Family Medicine, Dr. Brian P. Sanders and our compassionate team view sexual health as a standard component of your overall wellness—no different than heart health or digestive health.
We want to empower you to take control. If you are sexually active, routine screening is simply a responsible part of being an adult. It’s a sign that you respect your body and your partners.
Care Tip:
Don’t assume routine blood work includes STD testing. A standard “annual physical” panel usually checks cholesterol and blood sugar, but not sexual health. You have to specifically ask for it—and in our DPC office, we make that request easy and comfortable.
Don’t Wait for April
While April is the designated awareness month, your health matters year-round. Don’t let embarrassment or inconvenience jeopardize your future. By choosing a healthcare partner who knows you by name and prioritizes your comfort, you can ensure that “what you don’t know” doesn’t stand a chance against “what you do know.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Direct Primary Care benefit for someone worried about STD testing?
The best Direct Primary Care benefit in this context is the combination of privacy and access. In a DPC model, you can often text or email your doctor directly to ask questions before coming in, reducing anxiety. When you do come in, the extended appointment times ensure your concerns are addressed thoroughly in a private, unhurried setting, rather than a busy waiting room environment.
How often should I be screened for STDs?
Screening frequency depends on your lifestyle, age, and risk factors, which is why a personalized conversation with your doctor is key. Generally, all sexually active adults should be screened at least once a year. However, if you have new partners or multiple partners, your doctor might recommend more frequent testing, such as every 3 to 6 months, to ensure you stay safe and healthy.