Same Day Appointments Available

Same Day Appointments Available

SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

STI vs. STD: What You
Need to Know

Wondering if you may have caught an STD or STI? Most people won’t experience symptoms when they get Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).

Play it safe and get free STI testing. At Alcove Health in Newport News, your care is always confidential and judgment-free. Our team of nurse practitioners and advocates work to provide accurate information, confidentiality, and a judgment-free environment with trained advocates.

What Is an STI?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) are infections passed from one person to another during sex. STI symptoms can include unusual discharge, itching, pain during sex, or burning when you pee. Many people don’t notice any symptoms at all, and if they do, they’re very mild.

Even without symptoms, you can pass an STI to someone else. That’s why it’s so important to get tested, especially if you’ve had sex without a condom. An untreated STI can spread to others and may lead to long-term health problems.

need sti testing - alcove health womens clinic newport news va

What’s the Difference

Between STIs and STDs?

Most people use STI and Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) the same way, but there are key STI vs STD differences. While STIs are an infection, STDs occur when the infection has caused disease or symptoms.

How to Protect Your Health

STIs are more common than you might think, especially in our area. In 2023, Virginia continued to face a significant public health challenge with nearly 55,000 cases of STIs reported.

The best way to protect yourself from STIs is to:

  • Use condoms every time you have sex
  • Know that birth control doesn’t protect against STIs
  • Talk openly with your partner about testing and protection

 

Free, Confidential Testing at Alcove Health

Getting tested is a normal part of staying healthy, but when should you get tested for STIs? If you’ve had unprotected sex in the last year, it’s a good idea to get tested.

At Alcove Health, we’re here to listen, support, and help you take the next step toward peace of mind. Our team provides:

  • Free STI testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trich
  • Private, judgment-free care
  • Help from women who understand what you’re going through

Schedule your free STI test today. It’s simple, safe, and can help you feel confident about your health.

Areas We Serve

Proudly serving Newport News, Hampton, Williamsburg, York County, and Surrounding Areas

What Women Are Saying

about Alcove Health on Google Reviews

Find Out More Information On Our Blog

choose abortion - Alcove Health Womens Clinic Newport News Virginia

3 Honest Reasons Women May Choose Abortion

Nearly half of all pregnancies in America are unplanned and there are many reasons women choose abortion. While your reasons may be different (and there may even be multiple reasons), below are three of the top reasons women choose abortion.

Read More »
come to virginia for an abortion - Alcove Health Womens Clinic Newport News Virginia

What if I come to Virginia for an abortion?

Here at Alcove Health, we’ve helped thousands of women over the past 30 years. They come to our clinic, get the medical services they want, understand their pregnancy options, and then move on with their plans. For some that’s abortion, for others that’s parenting, and then for a few that’s adoption. If you’re coming to Virginia for an abortion, read on to see how we can help you, too.

Read More »
incomplete abortion - Alcove Health Womens Clinic Newport News Virginia

The danger of an incomplete abortion

An incomplete abortion is an associated risk with medical and surgical abortions. It occurs when the contents of the uterus are not completely expelled – and can cause severe side effects. Know the risks and symptoms so you can protect your reproductive health.

Read More »