Free Sexually Transmitted Disease Testing
Sexually transmitted infections (also known as sexuality transmitted diseases or STDs for short) are infections that are spread primarily through various types of sexual intercourse. STDs are common and don't always cause noticeable symptoms, which is why it is important to get an STD test if you are having sex. All STDs are treatable and some are completely curable.
Why We Care
In Iowa, we are seeing more and more sexually transmitted infections occurring among our residents. When left untreated, STDs can cause serious and permanent health problems, even if you never had noticeable symptoms of the infection.
Untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to pregnancy difficulties and infertility in both men and women. These infections can also cause painful testicular conditions and increase the chances of getting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Untreated syphilis can spread to the brain and nervous system, eyes, and ears.
Recently, there have been increases in the number of babies born with congenital STDs, especially syphilis. Some STDs, like syphilis, can infect the baby while still in the womb. Others, like gonorrhea or chlamydia, can pass to baby as the baby passes through the birth canal. Babies affected by an STD may experience low birth weight, infections in the blood, liver, or nervous system, brain damage, pneumonia, blindness, deafness, or stillbirth.
Free Testing Available in Dallas County
Through partnership with Polk County Health Department and Primary Health Care, Free STD testing is available to anyone in Dallas County. The monthly STD clinic is able to test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, trichomoniasis, and hepatitis C. Testing is also available with your primary health care provider.
Dallas County STD Walk-in Clinic
WHEN: 3rd Wednesday of the month from 3:30-5:00pm*
WHERE: Dallas County Human Services Campus- 25747 N Ave. Suite C, Adel**
* Beginning in May. There will be no clinic in March or April.
** This is a new location. There will no longer be a testing location in Redfield.
Prevent STDs
- Abstinence: avoid infection by not having any form of sex (i.e. anal, vaginal, or oral)
- Vaccination: vaccines are available to prevent hepatitis B and HPV, two viruses which can cause cancer.
- Reduce Number of Sexual Partners: fewer partners reduces the risk for STDs. Talk with your partner about getting tested and sharing the results with one another.
- Mutual Monogamy: agree to be sexually active with only one person who has agreed to be sexually active only with you.
- Use Condoms: correct and consistent use of a condom reduces the risk of spreading STDs. Free condoms are available at the Dallas County Health Department.
The Monthly Health Promotion message is provided by the Dallas County Health Department for use in newsletters, social media messaging, or other communications.
Any questions can be directed to Abigail Chihak, MSW, MPH.
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