testing schedule with a healthcare professional.
Testing should be viewed as routine healthcare—not a punishment for having sex.
17. Know the Red Flags
Seek medical attention if you develop symptoms such as severe pelvic or abdominal pain, significant genital swelling, fever with genital symptoms, unexplained bleeding, painful sores, or severe testicular pain.
Sudden severe testicular pain in particular requires urgent evaluation because certain causes can threaten the testicle if treatment is delayed.
Likewise, severe allergic reactions, serious injuries, or other emergencies require immediate medical care.
18. Sexual Health Isn’t About Shame
Perhaps the most damaging consequence of sensational sexual-health headlines is shame.
People sometimes avoid testing because they’re embarrassed.
They may avoid discussing symptoms because they’re afraid of being judged.
They may stay silent about contraception because they don’t want to seem “difficult.”
But sexual health is healthcare.
Doctors and sexual-health professionals deal with these questions every day.
You don’t
