April is STI Awareness Month and the second week marks STI Awareness Week—an important reminder that taking care of your sexual health is part of taking care of your whole self. At Spectrum Medical Care, knowledge is power, including understanding the facts about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and diseases, knowing your risk, and making testing a regular part of your health routine. Whether you’re navigating new relationships, exploring your identity, or just want peace of mind, this is your moment to get informed, break the stigma, and take charge of your health—with respectful, inclusive, and judgment-free support.
April is STI Awareness Month
This April, in recognition of STI Awareness Month, take the opportunity to educate yourself about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Anyone sexually active is at risk for STIs, so it’s essential to understand how to reduce your risk and maintain your sexual health.
The Second Week Of April Is STI Awareness Week
Did you know that the CDC estimates there are approximately 20 million new STI infections each year? In recognition of STI Awareness Week, which takes place annually during the second full week of April, we encourage you to take care of your health by getting tested for STIs and HIV.
Understanding STIs vs. STDs: Key Differences and Risk Reduction Tips
At Spectrum Medical Care, we’re using STI Awareness Month and STI Awareness Week this April to clear up confusion, reduce stigma, and encourage you to take charge of your sexual health.
Let’s start with a common question: Are STIs and STDs the same thing?
Not exactly. While people often use the terms interchangeably, there’s one key difference:
- STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, meaning the body has been exposed to a virus, bacteria, or parasite.
- STD stands for sexually transmitted disease, meaning the infection has progressed and is now causing symptoms or health complications.
In short, all STDs start as STIs, but not all STIs become STDs. This distinction matters because many STIs don’t cause symptoms, and that’s exactly why regular testing is so important.
Want to understand more about the difference between STIs and STDs? Ask your provider during your next visit—we’re here to talk, not judge.
Why STI Testing Matters—And When to Get It
Let’s be real: talking about STIs can feel uncomfortable. But pretending the risk doesn’t exist won’t protect your health—or your partners’. The truth is, sexually transmitted infections are common, and there’s absolutely no shame in getting tested. In fact, it’s one of the smartest, most responsible things you can do for your well-being.
We make space for real education and proactive care by breaking down stigma and encouraging open conversations. Most STIs are treatable—and many are curable—but only if you know you have one. Testing isn’t just about protecting yourself. It’s about protecting the people you care about, too.
Here’s why regular testing matters:
- Not all STIs come with symptoms—you can have one and not know it.
- Early detection means early treatment, which helps prevent long-term health issues like infertility or an increased risk of HIV.
- Testing reduces the spread and keeps your partners safer.
- It gives you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
So, when should you get tested? According to the CDC, everyone who is sexually active should be tested at least once a year. But more frequent testing may be needed if:
- You’ve had unprotected sex
- You have a new or multiple sexual partners
- You’re pregnant
- You’ve shared injection drug equipment
- Your partner has tested positive for an STI
- You’re experiencing symptoms
Keep in mind: timing matters. Getting tested too soon after exposure may not provide accurate results because your body needs time to develop detectable antibodies. That’s why it’s important to speak with a provider about the right testing window for your situation.
At Spectrum Medical Care, we make STI testing simple, confidential, and respectful. Whether it’s part of your routine or something on your mind, getting tested is a powerful act of self-care, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
I have an STI, now what?
STIs might differ, but the key takeaway remains: knowledge is empowering. Testing safeguards your health and your partner’s and brings you peace of mind. If you test positive for an STI, initiate treatment promptly, and remember—these infections are more common than you might think.
While discussing your STI status can be awkward, informing your sexual partners is crucial so they, too, can get tested. A positive result shouldn’t cause alarm. Many STIs—such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis—are treatable with antibiotics. Others, like HIV or herpes, can be effectively managed with medications that alleviate symptoms and reduce transmission risks. We’re here to assist you in developing a treatment plan and, if necessary, notifying your partners so they can also be tested. If you are unsure how to approach such conversations, we support you.
This April, take the opportunity to know your status. Whether you’re overdue for a checkup or just have questions, Spectrum Medical Care is here with respectful, affirming, judgment-free care for everyone. We offer STI testing in-office, including Testing After Dark hours. We are also at many community events across Maricopa County. To find out where our U.B.U. Crew will be next; visit here.
Know your status. Own your status. Let’s normalize testing and take the stigma out of sexual health, starting now.